Key takeaways
- The founder of Bob Mills Furniture passed away on Nov. 9, 2026
- Mills' family confirmed his passing but did not publicly reveal the cause of death
- The family also confirmed that Bob Mills Furniture will remain operational
Bob Mills, the founder and longtime president of Bob Mills Furniture, died on Monday at the age of 79. His death was confirmed by his family. The Oklahoma businessman built his company from a single furniture store into a regional retail chain operating 12 locations across Oklahoma, Texas, and Kansas.
His family announced his passing in a statement that was shared on social media, and described the loss as immeasurable.
(Source: Facebook)
How Bob Mills Built His Furniture Empire
Mills launched his furniture business in Oklahoma City in 1971 at just 23 years old by using a $25,000 loan from his mother to open his first store inside a former grocery store. Despite struggling during the company's early years, Mills continued expanding the business.
A major turning point came in the late 1980s when the retailer moved into a 110,000-square-foot facility on West Reno Avenue in Oklahoma City. That location eventually became the company's flagship showroom and corporate headquarters.
Over the next few decades, Bob Mills Furniture expanded into cities including Tulsa, Wichita, San Antonio, Lubbock, and Waco.
The company now employs more than 400 people, while Mills became a recognizable figure through his appearances in television and radio advertisements.
What Happened to Bob Mills?
Mills' death was announced on Nov, 9, although his family did not publicly disclose a cause of death. In their statement, relatives emphasized that his greatest achievements extended beyond building a successful retail business.
They described him as someone who believed strongly in people and valued the relationships he developed throughout his career.
Mills is survived by his wife, Margaret, and their three children, Bryan, Tuesday, and Chris, who are all involved in the family business. Funeral and memorial arrangements were been announced.
What Happens to Bob Mills Furniture Now?
Despite the founder's death, the family confirmed that Bob Mills Furniture will continue operating. The company plans to maintain its existing business operations and preserve the values and customer-focused approach established by Mills.
However, the family has not yet announced specific leadership succession arrangements.
