Bob Mills Furniture Founder Dies at Age 79
Bob Mills, the founder and president of Bob Mills Furniture, died at 79 after building a regional retail empire across three states.
The family of Bob Mills, the founder and longtime president of Bob Mills Furniture, announced his death on November 10, 2026, at the age of 79.
Mills established his first store in 1971 at age 26 in a repurposed grocery building on SE 29th Street in Oklahoma City. He launched the business using a loan from his mother, with reports on the amount varying between $5,000 and $25,000. Over the next 55 years, he expanded the company into a regional powerhouse, growing the business to between 12 and 14 showrooms across Oklahoma, Texas, and Kansas. The company currently ranks No. 49 in Furniture Today’s Top 100 Furniture Companies and employs more than 400 people.
Known as "the working man's friend" through his television commercials, Mills supported youth-focused philanthropic programs and organizations including Habitat for Humanity, Toys for Tots, and the Boys & Girls Club. David F. Griffin, Chairman and CEO of Griffin Media, described Mills as a "true Oklahoma icon and business trailblazer."
Mills is survived by his wife, Margaret, and children Bryan, Tuesday, and Chris. His family confirmed that the company will continue to operate under the same core values and commitment to excellence established by Mills.
