Obituaries
Miriam H. Mills, 87, of Milford, passed away peacefully on October 21, 2025.
Miriam was an accomplished occupational therapist, skilled watercolor teacher, and beloved mother, grandmother and great grandmother.
Miriam H. Mills, 87, of Milford, passed away peacefully on October 21, 2025. She was born on March 25, 1938 in Hew Haven, CT, to the late Hollis and Amy Hugins.
Miriam pursued her education with great dedication, attending Cushing Academy, Bates College, and Tufts University. She built a meaningful career as an occupational therapist, beginning at Easter Seals and the VA Hospital before becoming the Director of Occupational Therapy at Yale Psychiatric Institute. Her compassion, professionalism, and commitment to helping others defined her work and earned her deep respect from colleagues and patients alike.
A gifted watercolor artist, Miriam’s talent and creativity shone through in her prize-winning paintings, which were featured in numerous local and regional exhibitions, including several solo shows. Her love for the arts extended beyond her own work. As a past president of the Milford Fine Arts Council, she played an instrumental role in transforming the Milford train station into the council’s home. Miriam also served as president of the Fairfield County branch of the National League of American Pen Women, an organization celebrating artists, writers, musicians, and women leaders in the arts.
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Miriam shared her passion generously, teaching watercolor for many years and finding great joy in inspiring and encouraging her students. Her artistry, leadership, and kindness left a lasting mark on the communities she cherished.
She is survived by her beloved daughter Lori Rapuano (Joseph), granddaughter Amy Rapuano (Eric Holbrook), grandson David Rapuano (Carter Bradshaw), great granddaughter Mia Godiksen, and great grandson Mason Godiksen. As well as many additional beloved family, friends, and students. In addition to her parents, she is predeceased by her brother Calvin Farnham Hugins.
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Family and friends are invited to gather on Thursday, October 30, 2025, from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at the Cody-White Funeral Home, 107 Broad Street, Milford. A Funeral Service will be celebrated on Thursday, October 30, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at First United Church of Christ, 34 W. Main St., Milford CT 06460. Interment will follow at Milford Cemetery, 35 Gulf St, Milford CT 06460.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Miriam’s name can be made to the Milford Fine Arts Council online at www.milfordarts.org/donate or to the First United Church of Christ online at www.firstchurchofmilford.org/giving
To light a candle or leave a condolence, please visit our website at www.codywhitefuneralservice.com
