Bob Mills, the founder and longtime president of Bob Mills Furniture, has died at the age of 79. His family announced the news on social media, describing the loss as profound for those who knew him personally and for the many customers who interacted with the company over the decades. The announcement was made on Monday, November 9, 2026, confirming that the entrepreneur passed away on that same day.
Mills began his career in the furniture industry in 1971 when he was 23 years old. At the time, he was working as an insurance typist in Oklahoma City, where he issued late-payment notices for a living. He decided to pursue a different path by securing a $25,000 loan from his mother and partnering with a friend to open his first store. The initial location was a repurposed grocery building in Oklahoma City. The early years were difficult, and by 1975, the staff had shrunk to just two employees, but Mills persisted through grit and a focus on customer dedication.
The company grew significantly over the following decades, reaching a pivotal milestone in the late 1980s. During that period, the business moved to a 110,000-square-foot facility at 3600 W. Reno in Oklahoma City. That building continues to serve as the flagship showroom and corporate headquarters for the company. Under Mills’ leadership, the business expanded steadily across three states, establishing a strong regional presence.
As of 2026, the company is celebrating its 55th anniversary. It now operates 12 locations across Oklahoma, Texas, and Kansas. The stores are located in Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Wichita, Amarillo, Lubbock, Midland, Odessa, San Antonio, San Juan, Schertz, Temple, and Waco. The organization employs more than 400 people and has been ranked No. 49 in Furniture Today’s Top 100 Furniture Companies, marking it as one of the largest independent furniture chains in the region.
Mills was well known to generations of families in the region, not just as a business owner but also as a familiar presence on television and radio. He was regarded as a trusted voice who believed that everyone deserved quality furniture at a fair price. His approach to business emphasized relationships and a genuine belief in the people who worked with him and the customers he served.
The family stated that Mills built more than a furniture company; he built a legacy rooted in hard work, determination, and deep relationships. They noted that what began as his dream grew into something far greater than he could have imagined. The family expressed deep gratitude for the dedication and loyalty shown by the employees and customers who played a part in the company’s success.
Mills is survived by his wife, Margaret, and their children, Bryan, Tuesday, and Chris. All three children play active roles in the family business. The family has reassured customers that Bob Mills Furniture will continue to move forward, guided by the same values, dedication, and commitment to excellence that have defined the company for many years.
The family requested that people keep them in their thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. They also indicated that funeral and memorial service arrangements have not yet been determined. Details regarding the services will be shared once they become available. The company remains committed to honoring the founder’s vision and carrying his legacy into the future.
The statement was released by the family and the company on Monday afternoon. It highlighted the personal loss felt by the family while acknowledging the widespread impact Mills had on the community. The company will continue serving customers across all its locations, maintaining the standards established by its founder.
