John James (J.J.) Mills, 1888-1966

John James Mills, OBE, MBE, M.R.S.T, JP, known as J.J. Mills, was a dedicated educator, contributing to the advancement of education in Jamaica as the country moved to self-government and independence. For J.J. Mills, education was the pathway to success and development. He was a proud Mico man like Arthur Thelwell.

J.J.Mills was born in Penshurst, St Ann, on January 9, 1888. He was the son of John Mills, a farmer, and his wife, Laura Ada Maxwell Mills. He attended Sturge Town Government Elementary School. In 1906, he received a Government Exhibition Scholarship to attend the Mico Teachers’ Training College. He graduated with honours in 1908, embarking on his career in education.

It appears that J.J. Mills was an ardent music lover, and among other things, was a teacher of classical music at Mico, his alma mater. By 1920, he was a senior tutor. He was appointed vice-principal in 1940, becoming acting principal in about 1943. He was appointed principal by 1945 and would retain this position until his retirement in 1948 after 40 years of service.

J.J. Mills was regarded as the spirit of Mico, active in everything pertaining to its advancement. He was honoured for his contribution to education in Jamaica, being considered the godfather of the teaching profession. He received the compliment of being considered a very useful citizen. It was said that he put country first in all his actions.

INVOLVED IN ORGANISATIONS

Mills was a very busy man involved in various organisations at home and abroad and in various committees and projects. He was a leader of the Kingston Teachers’ Association and the Jamaica Union of Teachers.

Despite his busy schedule, he was interested in adult education and found time to teach people who were illiterate.

In his retirement, he continued his contribution to education and social welfare. He volunteered to serve several organisations.

John James Mills departed life on May 7, 1966. There were many tributes to him, which are recorded in The Gleaner. They are an indication of the high esteem in which he was held in his lifetime.

In 1969, his autobiography, titled J.J. Mills: His Own Account of His life and Times, was published. It was edited by R.N. Murray. Copies of this autobiography are at the National Library of Jamaica. A profile of J.J. Mills, written by Inez K. Sibley, also appeared in The Gleaner of January 31, 1969.

His legacy is clearly his sterling contribution to the development of Mico and to education in Jamaica. At Mico, a residence hall bears his name. In 1966, the Government thought it fitting to name a school in his honour. This is the John Mills Primary and Junior High School.

J.J. Mills is another Jamaican whose life provides an example to be emulated by our younger generations, who should strive to be useful citizens.

Contributed by Marcia E. Thomas.