William E. Mildren III (“Trip”), 57, of Tupper Plains, Ohio, passed away unexpectedly on January 17, 2026. He was born on August 10, 1968, in Parkersburg, West Virginia, the son of William E. Mildren Jr. and his late mother, Marlene Jo Anderson (formerly Marlene Mildren). Trip graduated from Myers Park High School in Charlotte, North Carolina, in 1986.
After high school, Trip moved back to Parkersburg, where he owned and operated his own business. He later returned to Charlotte before eventually settling in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, where he devotedly cared for his mother during her illness—a role he took on with deep love, patience, and selflessness. In later years, Trip made his home in Tupper Plains, Ohio.
Trip loved his family, friends, and the outdoors, and he genuinely cared for everyone around him. Looking out for others came naturally to him, and he was always watching over the people he loved. Family and friends meant the world to Trip, and he cherished special occasions and time spent together. He never missed a family gathering or meaningful event and found great joy simply being with the ones he loved.
Trip found peace and purpose in the outdoors and took great pride in caring for Hickory Lakes Farm in Tupper Plains, Ohio, with his father. He was a devoted lover of dogs and animals; an avid hunter of ducks, deer, and turkey; and a passionate fly fisherman who loved catching redfish and trout. He also enjoyed birdwatching and feeding the birds, along with caring for the ducks and chickens on the farm.
In addition to his love for the outdoors, Trip had many hobbies and creative interests. He enjoyed playing golf, listening to and appreciating music, and had a deep love for art and photography, finding beauty in capturing moments and the world around him. His curiosity, creativity, and wide range of interests reflected his thoughtful and caring spirit.
Trip was preceded in death by his mother, Marlene Jo Anderson, of Mount Pleasant, South Carolina; his grandparents, William E. Mildren Sr. and Mary Carolyn McCoy Mildren, and Harold and Velma Taylor. He was also heartbroken by the recent loss of his beloved dog and devoted companion, Hailey.
Trip is survived by many family members who will miss him dearly, including his father, William E. Mildren Jr., and stepmother, Cathy Mildren. He is survived by his brother and best friend, Charles “Chad” Mildren (Nikki), with nieces Annie and Margaret Mildren; and his loving sister, Suzanne Brooks (Pat), with nephew William Brooks and niece Caroline Brooks. He is also survived by his stepbrother, Philip Parsons II (Becky), with nieces Paige and Callie Parsons; and stepsister, Christin Smith (Jason), with nephews Cooper and Paxton Smith. He is also survived by a dear friend who was like a brother, John Ralsten. Trip was a friend to so many, and his kindness, loyalty, and love will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Services will be held on Friday, January 23, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Trinity Episcopal Church, 430 Juliana Street, Parkersburg, West Virginia. Calling hours will be held Thursday, January 22, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Leavitt Funeral Services, 403 7th Street, Parkersburg, West Virginia. Trip will be laid to rest at Mount Olivet Cemetery.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.LeavittFuneralHome.com
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