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William E. Mildren III ("Trip"), 57, of Tupper Plains, Ohio, passed away unexpectedly on January 17, 2026. He was born 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 returned to Parkersburg, where he owned and operated his own business. He later lived in Charlotte and then Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, where he devotedly cared for his mother during her illness with deep love and selflessness. In later years, he made his home in Tupper Plains, Ohio.
Trip loved his family, friends, and the outdoors and genuinely cared for everyone around him. Family meant everything to him, and he never missed a gathering or meaningful occasion. He found peace and purpose outdoors and took great pride in caring for Hickory Lakes Farm alongside his father. He was an avid hunter and fly fisherman, a devoted lover of animals, and especially cherished his dogs. He also enjoyed birdwatching, golf, music, art, and photography.
Trip was preceded in death by his mother; his grandparents, William E. Mildren Sr. and Mary Carolyn McCoy Mildren, and Harold and Velma Taylor; and his beloved dog and devoted companion, Hailey.
He is survived by his father, William E. Mildren Jr., and stepmother, Cathy Mildren; his brother and best friend, Charles "Chad" Mildren (Nikki), with nieces Annie and Margaret; his sister, Suzanne Brooks (Pat), with nephew William and niece Caroline; stepbrother Philip Parsons II (Becky), with nieces Paige and Callie; stepsister Christin Smith (Jason), with nephews Cooper and Paxton; and a dear lifelong friend who was like a brother, John Ralsten. Trip's kindness, loyalty, and love will be deeply missed.
Services will be held Friday, January 23, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Trinity Episcopal Church, Parkersburg, West Virginia. Calling hours will be Thursday, January 22, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Leavitt Funeral Services, Parkersburg. Burial will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery.