IN MEMORIAM: Wendy (Morris) Mills, 54;

Raised In Oneonta, Felled By Brain Cancer

ONEONTA – Wendy (Morris) Mills, 54, who grew up in Oneonta and graduated from Franklin Central School in 1982, succumbed to brain cancer on Jan. 29, 2019, at her home in Morrisville, N.C., with her loving husband, Blake, by her side.

Wendy was born in Endicott, to Frederick and Diane Morris.  After graduation, she went on to graduate from SUNY Plattsburgh in 1988, with her BA in political science. Wendy was a certified ophthalmic technician, most recently at Carolina Retina Institute.

Wendy impacted many lives in a positive way by her joy for life, kindness to others, generosity and love for family and friends. Wendy bravely fought brain cancer for two years, always with a positive attitude. Wendy’s selfless and kindheartedness were an inspiration to all who were fortunate to know her. She is our hero and will be dearly missed.

Wendy is survived by her husband, Blake Mills of Morrisville; daughter, Jessica Lagoy and son, Chase Lagoy of Hillsborough, N.C.; mother, Diane (John O’Connell) of Cary, N.C.; brothers Fred Morris of Oneonta and David Morris of Mesa, Ariz.; sister and best friend, Rebecca Hilts (Steve) of Camillus; special cousin (Sis) Kelly Ricciotti (Joe) of Fort Myers, Fla.; and brother-in-law, Maurice Stranagan of Pine Bush. Wendy is also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles cousins and friends.

She was predeceased by her brother, Jim Morris; sister, Lori Stranagan; and stepfather, Harold Hilts of Oneonta.

The family thanks all of the loving people who were there for Wendy as she made her transition to Heaven; most especially, her friend, retired nurse and angel, Janet Jeeter, who stayed by her side day and night throughout her journey.

There will be a celebration of Wendy’s life in North Carolina at a later date.

Contributions in Wendy’s name may be made to one’s local food pantry.