Christina Rose Mills (Porter) passed away on April 29, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of fierce love, unwavering devotion to family, and a warmth that made everyone around her feel cared for.

Born on September 7, 1964, in Lake County, Montana, to Jeanette Matt and Kennith Betts, Christina built a life centered around connection, compassion, and the people she loved most.

She is survived by her loving family: her sons, Brandon Porter and wife Breanna, along with their daughter Madeline, and Nikolos Porter and wife Lacey, along with their daughter Zoe; her siblings, Jodi, Henry, and Danny Hunter; along with many extended family members, dear friends, and countless clients who became like family over the years.

Christina was widely known as one of the finest barbers in Missoula, not simply because of her talent, but because of the relationships she built in her chair. To Christina, clients were never just appointments. They were friends, confidants, and often family in every sense that mattered. Even later in life, despite significant health challenges, she continued doing the work she loved because being with people brought her joy.

More than anything, Christina believed in family.

She loved holidays, family gatherings, floating the river, soaking up the sunshine, tending to her house plants, taking spontaneous drives in her golf cart around the yard (and just for the thrill - sometimes beyond), going to the races, and celebrating every milestone her sons achieved. One of her greatest joys in life was seeing her boys grow into the men they became, watching them marry, and fulfilling her lifelong dream of becoming a grandmother.

Her love for her granddaughters was immeasurable. Despite health struggles that would have slowed many others, Christina still made every effort to be present—attending Zoe’s sporting events whenever she could, and even choosing to leave the hospital early so she could spend precious time with her newest granddaughter, Madeline, just days after she was born.

Christina had a gift for conversation. She loved stories, loved photos, loved checking in, and loved simply talking. Whether over the phone, by Facebook message, or late-night texts when someone needed her. She could talk about anything and everything, which made her a perfect match for her beloved husband, Vern.

After nearly 26 years together, Christina married Vern Mills, the love of her life, on July 10, 2023. Though officially married for just under three years, theirs was a partnership built over decades—one rooted in patience, laughter, loyalty, and a shared appreciation for both life’s adventures and its simplest joys. They went nearly everywhere together, and if they happened to be apart, it never seemed to last long.

Christina loved movies, reality television (much to the amused frustration of her sons), racing weekends, and time spent with the people she loved most. She was also the kind of person who chose peace whenever possible. She often would turn the other cheek if it meant preserving harmony and making sure those she loved knew everything was okay.

When Vern passed away, Christina was heartbroken. After a long and courageous fight through many personal challenges, she passed just a short time after him—a testament, perhaps, to a love that simply could not bear a long separation.

Christina will be remembered for her laughter, her stories, her kindness, her resilience, and the extraordinary love she poured into her family and community.

She will be deeply missed and forever loved. Celebration of life details will be shared soon.