Growing up on Pittsburgh’s North Side, Jim was a remarkable athlete. He showcased his talent in football, basketball, and baseball at Perry High School. Upon graduating in 1959, he continued his athletic journey, playing football first at the University of Pittsburgh and later at Slippery Rock University. Jim’s leadership led Slippery Rock to their inaugural bowl game in 1963. In October 2018, he was honored with induction into the Slippery Rock Hall of Fame. During his time at Slippery Rock, Jim met the love of his life, Bonnie (Anderson), and they married in 1967.
Moving to the Indiana, PA area in 1970, Jim embarked on a distinguished career spanning more than 35+ years as a coach, educator, and administrator at Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP). He coached football, served as an associate athletic director, and chaired the health and physical education department. Jim’s unwavering commitment to fitness and wellness prompted IUP to name the workout facility in Zink Hall the James G. Mill Fitness and Wellness Center (affectionately known as Jim’s Gym) in 2012.
An individual with a deep faith and a devoted Catholic, Coach Mill was an active member of the St. Thomas More University Parish. He cherished his family, dedicating countless hours to be with them at fields, gyms, and car rides. He found solace by the ocean and cherished moments at Conneaut Lake. Known for his immense heart, infectious smile, and zest for life, he was a loving husband, proud father, brother, “Pap-Pap,” uncle, coach, and dear friend. He was a source of inspiration to many, leaving a lasting legacy through those he mentored, coached, and loved.
Jim is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years, Bonnie; his children—Shannon (Robert) McSorley, Jodi (William) DePhillipo, James (Meg) Mill, and Mark (Anne) Mill—and his cherished grandchildren: Grace, Charlie, Will, Catherine, Jack, James, Luke, Kate, Madeline, Patrick, Claire, and Lilly. He is also survived by his brother Robert Mill (Candice) and numerous nieces and nephews. He was the loving brother of the late Patricia Lokar, Elizabeth McKinney, and Jacqueline Gruber.
May his impact and memory continue to live on through the lives he touched and the hearts he inspired.
Friends will be received this Thursday, December 21st from 4-8 PM at Bowser Funeral Home and Cremation Services Inc., Homer City. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held this Friday, December 22nd at 10:30 AM at St. Thomas More University Parish, Indiana. Interment will be held at St. Bernard Cemetery at a later date.
Contributions can be made in Jim’s memory by sending a check payable to the Foundation for IUP to 1011 South Drive, G1 Sutton Hall, Indiana PA 15705. Please note Jim’s name on the memo line of your check. Online contributions can be made at www.alumni.iup.edu/jmill.
