Rachel Stuart Mills passed away Monday, April 27, 2009 at her home in Bakersfield, Calif. after a short bout with cancer. She was surrounded by her family and slipped away peacefully. Rachel was born June 9, 1927 to Walter Jackson and Josie Stuart in Fort Worth, Texas. She was the youngest of seven children. Rachel and her family moved to California in 1938 where Rachel attended Redondo High School. In 1945, she met her high school sweetheart and future husband, Ellis Mills. Ellis and Rachel eloped shortly after meeting and began their family consisting of two boys, Rae and Burt.

After Ellis retired from Color by Deluxe in 1985, Ellis and Rachel moved from their home in the Hollywood Hills to their motel, Lake Shore Motel, in Wofford Heights. They became well known in the area for their participation in organizations such as the Masonic Lodge and the Bodfish Beamers. Rachel was a member of KAPH. They were also known for their support of their sons and grandchildren. Lake Shore Motel became a staple in their lives and a very dear memory to the family. This is where the four granddaughters and three great-grandchildren really got to know Rachel and Ellis.

After the loss of her husband in 2005, Rachel sold the motel and moved to Glenwood Gardens in Bakersfield. She quickly established the nickname “Trouble” with the other residents and employees. And she adopted an entire new family which she loved dearly and they loved her. Rachel is preceded in death by her wonderful husband, Ellis Mills; her son and daughter-in-law Rae and Chris Mills; her parents Walter and Josie Stuart; and five of her brothers and sisters. Rachel leaves behind her son and daughter-in-law Burt and Peggy Mills; four granddaughters, Amber (Rudy) Morales, Robin Mills, Jessica (Josh) Mills-Ostrom and Samantha (Mike) Conley and three great-grandchildren, Darrin Rice II, Madison Sweeney and Alyssa Conley. Along with her sister Iva Mae Bunge and several nieces, nephews cousins and friends.

Rachel is remembered as a strong-willed person that was willing to help anyone when needed and was not afraid to speak her mind. She cared for her family and friends dearly and supported them in all phases of life. She will be missed by all that knew her. Services entrusted to Sierra Mortuary and Funeral Home.