Mike Caruthers, a Millington alderman for nearly 20 years, died at his home on Friday, Sept. 19, according to town officials.

“Alderman Caruthers was a devoted public servant whose many years of service to our community and our country will long be remembered,” said a press release from the City of Millington.

Caruthers, who founded USA Properties in Millington, was elected five times to the city’s Board of Mayor and Aldermen, serving for nearly two decades. He won reelection to Position 7 last November, defeating two challengers.

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He also served as a planning commissioner, was a member of the Millington Housing Authority, a Kiwanis Club member, and the Millington Crisis Center. 

Caruthers also served 26 years in the U.S. Army, specializing as an explosive ordnance disposal officer with expertise in nuclear weapons. He retired as a staff officer at the Joint Staff, Pentagon in 1996. His military honors include the Legion of Merit, Joint Service Commendation Medal, five Meritorious Service Medals, and six Army Commendation Medals.

Millington City Manager Frankie Dakin says a vacancy will be declared for Caruthers’ seat on the Board of Mayor and Aldermen, and it will be filled until the next regular election in 2026 (not for the entirety of Caruthers’ remaining term until 2028).

Dakin appreciates the time her got to serve with Caruthers.

“I came to deeply respect him, whether we agreed on a issue or not, although most often we were on the same side,” Dakin said. 

He cites recent efforts to raise the city’s minimum wage for full-time employees to $20 per hour, for which Caruthers strongly advocated.

“Even as fiscally conservative as he was, and he watched the budget like a hawk, he understood that people are what moves this city forward and our people deserve a livable wage,” Dakin said. “Without his leadership, that milestone would not have happened.” 

Memorial service visitation for Caruthers will take place at the Munford Funeral Home - Millington Chapel at 7450 Raleigh Millington Road on Friday, Sept. 26, from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.