Alton Ray Mills

Alton Ray Mills, 89, of Osage City, KS died peacefully at home on Tuesday, June 2, 2026 in Osage City, Kansas.

He was born on January 26, 1937 at the family farm in Burlingame, KS the son of Chester Mills and Margaret (Northcutt) Mills. Alton graduated from Burlingame High School with the class of 1955. 

Alton lived on the family land, raising livestock and crops. In addition to farming, he was a skilled carpenter. He was very proud of tending to the family farm his entire life and his job as a carpenter remodeling and building many beautiful houses.

On January 10, 1959, Alton married Jane Colstrom, the love of his life. They shared many adventures during nearly 63 years of marriage. Alton owned and operated the Dragoon Tavern in Burlingame, KS. He later sold it and built the Riverside Supper Club, which he and Jane operated from 1964 to 1975. Many patrons still speak of the good times at the "Riverside". After it closed, he remodeled the building into a home for his family. Later, they bought a local clothing store and, with partners, expanded it into CJ’s Gifts & Sportswear. Alton and Jane created unique handcrafted pieces when combining his exceptional woodworking skills with her artistic talent; many have enjoyed their work.  

Alton lived life with enthusiasm, generosity, and a deep love for family, friends and community. A devoted member of the Burlingame Lions Club, he held several leadership positions and especially enjoyed delivering annual holiday baskets, working at the football admissions gate for his alma mater Bearcats and working Sunday Bingo. 

An avid sports fan, Alton faithfully cheered for the KU Jayhawks and the St. Louis Cardinals. Vacations often included trips to St. Louis, where attending Cardinals games, became a cherished tradition. His love of sports extended beyond watching the game. He loved playing basketball and men's slow pitch. He coached youth baseball for many years, earning respect and admiration from the players he mentored. Throughout his life, he enthusiastically supported his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren at countless sporting events.  

Alton enjoyed tending to a large garden and selling produce from his home and at local farmers' markets. His trusting nature showed in his "honor system" produce stand, where customers left payment in a cigar box when he was away.  

Known for his ornery sense of humor, love of fishing, dancing, and celebrating life, Alton never met a stranger. He leaves behind countless stories, laughter, and memories that will be treasured by all who knew him. He was devoted to his family and took immense pride in their accomplishments. His zest for life, generous spirit, and love for others will always be remembered.

Alton was preceded in death by his loving wife, Jane Mills; his parents, Chester and Margaret Mills; and one brother, Robert Duane Mills. 

He is survived by two sons, Terry Mills and Mike Mills of Osage City, KS; one daughter, Carrie Sloan and husband Andy Combes of Lebo, KS; two granddaughters, Katelyn Sloan and Cody Hutchinson of Lebo, KS and Whitney Sloan-Plummer and husband Luke Plummer of Manhattan, KS; two great granddaughters Brooklyn and Jade Hutchinson of Lebo, KS; and one great grandson, Cade Plummer of Manhattan, KS. 

He was a loving and devoted son, brother, husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. He will be deeply missed and remain in the hearts and thoughts of his family and many friends forever.

Funeral Services will be 11:00 a.m., Thursday June 18, 2026 at the Federated Church in Burlingame, KS.  Memorial contributions may be made to Hand in Hand Hospice or the Helping Hands Humane Society and sent c/o Lamb-Roberts-Price Funeral Home, P.O. Box 194, Burlingame, KS 66413. Condolences may be sent to the family through www.lamb-roberts.com

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