Rebecca Francis

Rebecca “Becky” Francis Mills, 82, of Pikeville, a longtime Pike County educator, passed away on Saturday, December 19, at Pikeville Medical Center. She was born on November 11, 1938, to the late Kathryn Bevens Stratton and Ed Bevens. Her father died in 1943 serving his country in World War II, and her mother later married Arbey Stratton of Ivel, giving Becky a sister, Patty. In 1962, Becky married her college sweetheart, Charles Francis, and they had two daughters, Kathi and Charla. They were happily married for 39 years when Charlie died in a car accident in 2002. She was a member of the Elizabeth Old Regular Baptist Church of Fords Branch. Becky obtained her teaching degree from Pikeville College, then went on to gain a master’s degree and a Rank 1 at Eastern Kentucky University. She worked for the Pike County Board of Education, where she served as Director of Federal Programs for many years. She mentored countless young teachers and was renowned statewide for her innovative programs. She retired in 2001 with over 30 years of service to the children of Pike County. In 2004, Becky married Don Mills. They split their time between her home in Pikeville and his in Lexington, and they enjoyed traveling extensively both in the US and abroad. Becky especially loved their winter trips to Cozumel. For the past three years, Becky was unable to travel due to illness, but was able to remain in her home with her beloved dogs thanks to a wonderful caregiver, Susan Whittemore. Becky is survived by her husband, Don Mills of Lexington, her sister, Patty Radwan of Naples, FL, her daughters Kathi Rogers (Terry) and Charla Thompson (Max) both of Pikeville. She is also survived by six grandchildren who she loved beyond measure: Kassidy, Kaden, Barrett, and Blake Caudill as well as Tanner and Cate Thompson. Visitation will be Tuesday at 6p.m. at the Lucas & Son Funeral Home. The funeral will be Wednesday 12/23/2020 at 11 a.m. at the Lucas & Son Funeral Home with Robbie Osborne officiating. Burial will follow in the Davidson Memorial Garden at Ivel, Ky.