Rutherford names court in honor of former coach Mills

SPRINGFIELD — Becky Mills supplied the effervescence. Clyde Mills provided the humility.

The Rutherford family and representatives of Bay District Schools lended some perspective.

Continuing what has been an historic school year at Rutherford High School, as well as one of regeneration, the basketball floor of the new Ernest Spiva Gymnasium was dedicated as Clyde Mills Court on Thursday.

The honor recognized the contribution of the retired coach and educator who is in the upper rank of the winningest high school basketball coaches in county history.

“It’s a cliché, but it really is humbling,” said Mills, 71. “I hope it was for more than just basketball.”

That much was reinforced by a roster of speakers whose present and past roles helped illuminate Mills’ career. Current boys basketball coach Rhondie Ross played against and coached against some of Mills’ teams. He also presented Mills and Rutherford Administrative Assistant Jerry Lassiter with an honorary Rams’ jersey.

Rutherford Principal Mike Kennedy coached against Mills while at Bay, and Superintendent Bill Husfelt recalled not only when he was an assistant coach for the Rams, but when he officiated basketball games involving Mills.

“His demeanor and faith are on his shoulders,” Husfelt said of Mills. “He lives it and shows it.”

The grey-haired Mills, known by many for his dignified conduct on the bench, also was the athletic director during Rutherford’s glory years in athletics during the decade of the 1990s.

In addition to two appearances by the Rams in state championship football games, Mills guided Rutherford to its first Final Four in basketball in 1994. His teams dominated Bay County basketball throughout that era.

Mills and wife, Becky, relocated to Panama City from Mississippi in the 1970s, both teaching at Everitt Junior High School. Clyde Mills moved on to coach at Rutherford, and after returning for a stint at Everitt came back to Rutherford to stay in 1987.

He remained there until his retirement, and this year is being joined in retirement by long-time friend and colleague Greg Rivers. The Rams also unveiled their new gymnasium this winter, providing an opportunity to embellish Mills’ dedication and achievements.

“I didn’t think it was going to be a big deal, but you certainly honored me by making it that way,” Mills told the gathering, his family at his side.

“As great as this honor is, I have been honored in so many ways that are just as important.”