Danville, Vermont – Henry Scrimer Mills, Jr. (95), passed peacefully early Monday morning, January 26, 2015 at his home surrounded by his family and friends. He was born September 15, 1919 in Bertrand, VA to Henry S. and Grace (Packett) Mills. Henry grew up in the Northern Neck of Virginia, and as a young man he worked as a Chesapeake Bay waterman.

He served in the Army Infantry in North Africa, the invasion of Italy and the battle of Monte Cassino during World War II. He was awarded the Purple Heart when an 88mm shell burned into his side (but luckily did not explode for 10 minutes); and he was quoted as saying, "I was somewhere else by that time".

After the war he met and married Thelma Gazza, the love of his life. They were married sixty-five years, and have one daughter and one granddaughter. He lived in Farmingdale, NY, owned and operated Mills Mower and Saw Shop, and earned the moniker "Honest Henry" from his customers.

His many well-lived days were spent traveling, lending a helping hand to those in need, reading countless books, and making people laugh with his sharp wit and everlasting charm.

In recent years, Henry and his wife moved to Joes Pond in West Danville, VT to be closer to their daughter and granddaughter.

His wife passed away October 6th, 2011 and he missed her every day since. He is survived by his daughter, Henretta Splain of West Danville, VT as well as his granddaughter, Kellie Merrell and her husband Jeff of Danville, VT.

Any donations can be made to Caledonia Home Health and Hospice and the Danville Pope Memorial Library, two organizations whose services helped give Henry a great quality of life in his final years.

Henry and Thelma's ashes will be scattered by his loved ones this summer.

The Knight Funeral Home in White River Jct., VT has been entrusted with arrangements.