Betty Arlene (Jahns) Mills passed away peacefully on March 8, 2026, at the age of 89. Born in Rockford, Washington, in 1936 to Harold and Gladys (Slinkard) Jahns, Betty grew up on the family farm, a place she cherished throughout her life.

Her early education began in a two-room schoolhouse in Lake Creek, Idaho, where she, as the story goes, braved winter walks through twelve feet of snow, uphill both ways, to attend class. One room was for the students, while the other served as living quarters for the teacher. In January of her fourth-grade year, Betty returned to Rockford, Washington, where she would later graduate from high school.

During her high school years, Betty played both volleyball and basketball. She enjoyed sharing stories about how tough girls' basketball was back in the day. Her passion for athletics endured throughout her life, and she was especially devoted to cheering on her grandchildren sports activities and her favorite team, the Heppner Mustangs.

Betty married her high school sweetheart, Larry Mills, and together they shared 67 years of happiness. She was a devoted wife and was dedicated to supporting Larry in his career endeavors as General Manager for the Morrow County Grain Growers. Their family grew to include two children, Dianne and Michael, along with five grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, and six great-great-grandchildren. Of all her roles, being a grandmother was the one she treasured most.

Betty was artistic in every aspect of her life, from cultivating beautiful gardens to creating magical holiday decorations, especially at Christmas, a season she adored. She was an active member of the Morrow County Arts Club for many years and loved painting, often working to bring accomplished artists to Heppner for classes. Among her proudest achievements was helping to fundraise and plan the murals at the Morrow County Agricultural Resource Museum, a legacy that brought her immense pride.

Betty is survived by her daughter, Dianne Stickney; her grandchildren, Richard Stickney, Kellie Stickney Hoiland, Chloe Mills, and Chandler Mills; and her brother, Norman Jahns. She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Harold and Gladys Jahns; her brother, Robert Jahns; her husband, Larry Mills; her son, Michael Mills; and her grandson, James Stickney.

A graveside service will be held on March 28 at 1:00 PM at Fairview Cemetery in Rockford, Washington. A celebration of the lives of Betty and Larry Mills is planned for May 16 in Heppner, Oregon. Details will be shared at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Morrow County Agricultural Resource Museum, honoring Betty’s enduring legacy and love for her community.

Betty will be dearly missed by all who knew her. Her creativity, strength, and unwavering love for her family will not be forgotten.

Sweeney Payton Mortuary has been entrusted with the arrangements. Please leave your condolence messages for the family below.