CLEVELAND, TN — The Cleveland community is grieving the heartbreaking loss of Kimber LeAnn Mills, 18, who passed away on October 21, 2025. A senior at Cleveland High School, Kimber was widely cherished for her vibrant personality, radiant smile, and ambitious dreams for the future.
Kimber was a beloved cheerleader and track athlete, admired by peers and faculty alike for her energy, determination, and unwavering positivity. She had already received acceptance letters from the University of Alabama, UAB, and Wallace State, and looked forward to pursuing a bright and promising future.
Family, friends, and community members remember Kimber for her kindness, laughter, and light, which touched everyone she met. Her presence brought joy to her peers and loved ones, and she inspired others through her faith, friendships, and generous spirit.
Kimber was preceded in death by her father, Michael Scott Mills Sr.; brother, Barry Phillips Jr.; and several other family members, including her pawpaw, grandparents, and uncle. She is survived by her mother, Leah Mills; siblings Michael, Ashley, Taylor, Preston, Abby, Stormy, Autumn, and Kerri; as well as numerous aunts, grandparents, cousins, nieces, nephews, and many other loved ones.
The family will receive friends on Sunday, October 26, 2025, at Cleveland First Baptist Church from 12:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., followed by a funeral service at 3:00 p.m. Burial will take place at Elvester Cemetery. Pallbearers will include Preston Mills, Michael Mills, Nick Horton, Noah Hove, Nick Johnson, Hunter McCulloch, Mason Ford, and Steven Aderhold.
Kimber’s family and community remember her as a bright, loving young woman whose faith, friendship, and spirit will leave a lasting impression. Though her life was far too short, the joy and light she brought to those around her will be forever cherished.