Karen Mills Obituary, Cause of Death – Niskayuna Woman Dies Shortly After 60th Birthday
NISKAYUNA, N.Y. — Karen Marie Mills, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend, passed away peacefully on September 21, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family, shortly after celebrating her 60th birthday.
Born on September 13, 1966, to George and Colleen Marcil, Karen was raised in Cohoes, New York. From an early age, she developed the kindness, generosity and strong sense of family that would remain defining qualities throughout her life.
Karen dedicated 34 years of service to the New York State Department of Labor, where she built lasting friendships and touched the lives of many colleagues throughout her career.
In 1984, Karen met the love of her life, Douglas Mills. The couple married in 1989 and went on to share 37 years of marriage filled with love, laughter and unwavering devotion.
Family was at the center of Karen’s life. She treasured time with her loved ones, particularly during holidays, and held a special affection for Christmas. She also enjoyed traveling and shopping, creating cherished memories along the way and taking particular pleasure in finding thoughtful gifts for the people she loved.
Those who knew Karen remembered her for her positivity and generosity and for her remarkable ability to make others feel welcome. She formed meaningful connections wherever she went, leaving behind friendships and memories that will continue to be treasured.
Karen is survived by her devoted husband, Doug; her daughters, Megan Paradiso (Joseph) and Samantha Mills Regan (Thomas); and her beloved grandchildren, Eleanor and Everett, who brought immense joy to her life.
She is also survived by her siblings, Joe (Staci), Kathy (Rich), and Colleen (Dan), along with many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, extended family members and friends who loved her dearly.
For those closest to Karen, her passing represents the loss of a woman whose love and devotion shaped the lives of the people around her. Her family will carry forward the memories created through decades of shared celebrations, travels, holidays and everyday moments.
Funeral Services for Karen Marie Mills
Family and friends are invited to pay their respects at Glenville Funeral Home, 9 Glenridge Road, Glenville, on Thursday, September 24, from 4 to 7 p.m.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Saint Kateri Tekakwitha Parish on Union Street on Friday, September 25, at 9 a.m.
Interment will immediately follow at Most Holy Redeemer in Niskayuna.
For online condolences, the family invites friends and loved ones to visit Glenville Funeral Home.
Karen Marie Mills leaves behind a legacy defined by love, kindness, generosity and an unwavering devotion to family. Though her life ended shortly after her 60th birthday, the love she gave to her husband, children, grandchildren, siblings and many friends will continue through the generations.
May Karen’s memory remain a source of comfort to all who knew and loved her. May she rest in peace.