Millard Settle

Millard W. Settle (“Bill”)January 18, 1930 - August 31, 2024Millard W. Settle, affectionately known as “Bill,” passed away peacefully on August 31, 2024, at the age of 94. Born on January 18, 1930, in Thaxton, Virginia, Bill grew up in the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains, a place he always held dear to his heart.He was the youngest of nine children born to the late Charles Clifford Settles Sr. and Mary Bessie Penticost. He cherished his childhood memories, especially the times spent with his grandparents, Robert E. Penticost and Annie Victoria Blankenship on their farm, as well as Millard and Nellie Penticost. These family bonds and the values instilled in him during those early years shaped the man he became.Millard’s life was a testament to hard work, dedication, and love for his family. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, resilience, and a deep appreciation for the simple joys of life. His stories of growing up in the Blue Ridge Mountains, his laughter, and his unwavering support will be deeply missed by all who knew him.At the age of 17, Bill joined the US Army, where he was stationed at Fort Lee, VA, and Fort Bragg, NC, with the Airborne Division. He was a veteran of the Korean War and later served as a parachute instructor at West Point Military Academy. It was during his time at West Point that he met his beloved wife, Florence Blythe Settle, through a serendipitous double date. They would have celebrated 68 years of marriage on December 21st of this year.Bill made the Army his career, serving in the Vietnam War with the 173rd Airborne, where his unit was among the first troops to jump into the war zone. His military career took him to many places, including stationed in Puerto Rico, Okinawa, Germany, and multiple tours in Turkey, Greece, Spain, and Italy. He retired from the US Army with 26 years of service from Jan 1948- June 1974. Having spent his entire career with the airborne division including the 82nd Airborne and the 173rd Airborne from Fort Bragg, NC. Bill was a master parachutist and a certified glider pilot, jumping throughout his 27 years of service.Bill is survived by his beloved wife, Florence Blythe Settle of Goodview, and his children: Victoria Settle and Rick Settle, both of Goodview, VA; Bill and Sally Settle of McAlpin, FL; and Mike Settle of Anchorage, AK. He is also survived by his granddaughters: Callie Wilder (Duncan) of Fernandina Beach, FL, and Carlie Settle of Thomasville, GA; and his great-grandsons: Henry and William Wilder. Through the years he had many dogs, mostly his beloved beagles. He leaves behind his fur babies, Maggie Mae and Emmett, and they will miss him dearly.Bill was the last survivor of his immediate family. He is survived by his sister-in-law, Olive Conklin of Campbell Hall, NY, and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brothers: James Ernest Settle, Noah M. Settle, Clarence E. Settles, Charles C. Settles Jr., and John C. Settles; and his sisters: Mary F. Settle, Helen C. Settle, and Virginia G. Settle.Bill had a deep love for the outdoors, gardening, and beekeeping. His green thumb was evident in his immaculate yard filled with beautiful flowers. He took great joy in sharing his honey and vegetables with family and friends and those in need.You were a great husband, treating Mom with the utmost respect and showing your everlasting love for her. Your dedication to family was unparalleled, and you instilled in us the values that have prepared us for life. Your sense of humor, your stories of growing up in the Blue Ridge Mountains, military career and your unwavering support will always be remembered. You taught us the importance of hard work, kindness, and love. We will carry your lessons with us forever.Heroes take on many forms, and Dad, you are our hero. Thank you for your service and for being a great Husband and Father. In Lieu of flowers, if you would like to make a donation, please consider donating to: Bedford County Animal Shelter 1307 Falling Creek Rd, Bedford, VA 24523Bedford Humane Society 829 Ole Turnpike Dr, Bedford VA 24523Wounded Warrior ProjectA celebration of life service will be held at a later date.