Sir John Mills: Your tributes

The veteran actor Sir John Mills has died at home following a short illness at the age of 97.

Sir John's distinguished career lasted more than 70 years and he was the star of classics such as Ice Cold in Alex as well as some 109 other films.

Mills won the 1971 Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in Ryan's Daughter. He also worked as a director and a producer.

Thank you for your tributes to Sir John Mills. Read a selection of your e-mails below.

---

The following tributes reflect the messages we have received so far:

Please lets have a season of films staring John Mills, if only to remind us of when we made great films which didn't always have to appeal to the American market
Bill Duffy, UK

My father has got so many films with John Mills in them that I grew up watching him in movies (and I am only 30 years old) - what a fantastic actor he was and its nice to see so many people sending in such lovely tributes.
Lou, Lowestoft

I met Sir John a few years ago and had the pleasure of his company for nearly an hour. He was fascinating and told many stories of 'behind the scenes' of his films. I treasure his autograph and the picture of us together. A top class actor who will be sorely missed.
Erica Hudson, Worcestershire, England

John was the consummate professional, a truly remarkable actor whose lasting contribution to the British film industry I will always cherish. As a particular fan of his War movies, I can honestly say that no-one embodied British heroism like Sir John. Thanks!
Alex-James Painter, Cambridge University

Sir John Mills will always be unquestionably one of the finest actors that ever stepped onto a stage or the screen. As a drama teacher I often have people complain about not having enough lines to say. I always point out Sir John's fantastic performance in Ryan's Daughter, who needs lines when you can act like that! God bless him and his family.
Paula Dawson, San Pedro, Calif. USA

He was everything that was great about Britain and British films Jenny Ive, Gosport, Hampshire

I feel as if I have lost a good friend. He was everything that was great about Britain and British films. We can never forget such a marvellous man and actor. He left us with those wonderful films. God bless Sir John.
Jenny Ive, Gosport, Hampshire

Not only a great actor, but also a genuine person and sympathetic patron to many hoping to follow in his footsteps.
J Stemson, Leighton Buzzard, Bedfordshire

All that is English and such a lovely man. I have loved him every since I was a little girl. He is the one person I would have loved to have met.
Alva Dawson, Gravesend, Kent

Sir John Mills will be sadly missed by all who knew him and all who heard of him, for he touched the hearts of many. He is one of the last of his kind, a rare breed. My thoughts are with the Mills family.
Christopher Morris, Oldbury, West Midlands

One of the last links with pre and post war cinema. A Great Briton!
Gareth, Manchester, UK

Such a great actor, in some ways overshadowed by Hollywood (their loss), but a great British actor who was versatile in his performances and believable in his characters. His role in Ice Cold in Alex, made a profound impact on me, so much so that I followed the route (roughly) several years ago! Sadly missed.
Nicolei Zuraw, London, UK

The loss of Sir John Mills is so sad, but like other outstanding actors he leaves us with his undeniable to talent on film and our memories. To you Sir John thank you for the joy you have given to me through your acting. I have been privileged to see your films Hobson Choice being one of my very favourites, also I will never forget the top class performance in Ryan's Daughter - how lucky I am. Rest in Peace.
Moira Langford, London

In a world of so-called "celebrity and stars", John Mills was a real star. He had character, charisma and he could act! His performances will be remembered for many years to come.
Adrian Owen, Redditch, England

John's death signals the end of the golden age of British film. He was an accomplished man, whatever he lent his hand to, above and beyond his transformative abilities as an actor; his photography alone captures an extraordinary life. He will be greatly missed.
C Hadley, Bristol, UK

He was always very courteous Alan Thompson, BBC Radio Berkshire, Reading, UK

I had the pleasure of talking to Sir John over the phone when our ILR station ran a feature on his one man show at the Wycombe Swan, High Wycombe in 1995. He was always very courteous and I was very impressed by the show which I saw with my wife. I was amazed as to how a man in his 80s could reminisce without hesitation. The packed audience remained riveted throughout his performance. He also wrote me a letter after the performance thanking me for the radio station's support. A class actor, a gentleman and thoroughly 100 per cent genuine. We will not see the like of him again.
Alan Thompson, BBC Radio Berkshire, Reading, UK

What a true gentleman and what a great actor. I was always moved by the way he genuinely loved his wife and family. He was the most real actor I had ever seen. There are many who could learn from his skills as an actor and his genuine humanity. RIP Sir John.
Nichole Campbell, Saltaire, West Yorkshire

A sad time for all of Sir John Mill's fans. He was one of the greats. My favourite film of his, Hobson's Choice. My prayers go out to his family.
Philomena Shutler, Oakhurst, Ca, USA.

One of the finest actors I ever had the privilege to watch. God bless, you will be sorely missed
Louise, East Anglia

I feel great sorrow at the loss of this great actor and family man. My sympathy goes out to his family.
Marilyn Harmon, Pompano Beach, Florida, USA

Thank you for the many fine films and plays you performed in Alan Goodwin, Canada

God bless you and farewell Sir John. Your acting talents were many, from the poor to the privileged. You will be greatly missed, not only by your family, but your many friends and fans worldwide. Thank you for the many fine films and plays you performed in.
Alan Goodwin, West Vancouver, Canada

A few years ago I watched the fourth Quatermass, expecting light British science-fiction. The story, along with Mills portrayal, was so dark and earnest, that I wept for the death of the character. Now I weep for the actor. Goodbye, Mr Mills.
Alan Canon, Louisville, USA

I remember him in all the war films when I was a little girl. Tunes of Glory was one of my favourites. A true national treasure, he will be sorely missed.
Meg, Innisfil, Canada

A lovely, lovely man and a truly great actor. There will never be another like him. I only wish that I had had the opportunity to meet him in person. My thoughts are with his family at this very sad time. X
Jayne Duffy, Milton Keynes UK

He was a small man, but was a true giant in acting and in all media. He will be truly missed.
Clive Bishop, Dartmouth, Canada

Let's hope there will be a re-run of all his films on TV. A real gentleman that will missed.
S Jackson, Rochester, UK

Approximately 15 years ago I was waiting in Heathrow Airport to go back to Canada and who should walk by me but Sir John Mills. My first reaction was to ask him for an autograph but I thought do not disturb him he must get bothered all the time. He smiled at me as he passed. I never will forget it. I recently lost my father and when I heard of Sir John Mill's death a few tears were shed. My father loved the movie Hobson's Choice as well as many of his others. I don't think there was any film that he made that I didn't enjoy. To his family I pass on my sympathy. He will truly be missed. The world has lost another one of a kind.
Helen Galko, Ottawa, Canada

This is a sad day for British drama Michele, Bradford, UK

This is a sad day for British drama. What a wonderful person he was - always made you feel you knew him! Ice Cold in Alex was fantastic, also Hobson's Choice. He will be missed.
Michele, Bradford, West Yorkshire

So very sad to hear of Sir John Mills passing. Not just a wonderful actor, but came across as a lovely man. We have great films to treasure, a true star!
D Smith, Middlesex, UK

An inspiration and an institution. The world has lost a British legend. I'll never forget that scene in Ice Cold in Alex and the story behind it!
Lorraine Wright, London

A wonderful, wonderful actor from the cream of what my native Britain had to offer the acting world. My favourite Sir John Mills film will always be Hobson's Choice. He was brilliant! A true gem!
Jim Smoot (UK ex-pat), Los Angeles, CA, US

A very bright light has gone out. I'm sorry for his family, especially his grandson, Crispian, whom I imagine is devastated. I wonder who will look after Mary now. Good luck Sir John - wherever you are. God bless you.
Jenny, Essex, England

A gentleman to the last. Rest in Peace, Pip. We are all the poorer for your passing. God Bless You.
Cecelia Giunta, Glendale, NY, USA

What a wonderful man. He made us proud to be British.
Lynne, West Sussex

John Mills was the ultimate gentleman. He was the sort of man I feel I could have trusted with my inner most secrets, plus would have been given some honest and good advice. God rest his soul.
Caryll Calvert, Hemel Hempstead, England

My mom and I met Sir John back in 1980 at his Denham village home. What a wonderful gentleman. It is one of the best memories I have with my mom who recently passed away. My sympathies to his family.
Corinna Stevenson, Ben Lomond, California, USA

A big thank you and a sad farewell to one of my all time heroes Natalie, Crawley, UK

A big thank you and a sad farewell to one of my all time heroes. After hearing the news of his passing my immediate feelings of sadness were replaced with enormous gratitude by the recollections of so many great moments in so many great films. Thank you Sir John, you will be sorely missed.
Natalie, Crawley, UK

Not only was Sir John a great actor he was an even greater human being. Rest in peace Sir John.
Jim Nye, Sydenham, United Kingdom

A great actor who made quality films, another legend who will be sadly missed and one who never trawled his personal life through the press.
Stuart Harrison, Altrincham England

It is great human beings that bring joy and pleasure to others, as did Sir John Mills in full measure, which offset the many failings of the human race.
Norman, Toronto, Canada

He was my favourite actor of all time. His acting was always very sincere and his interviews showed a very charming man.
Ryan Corby, Manchester

Great Expectations, Hobson's Choice, Ryan's Daughter, are some of my favourite films. He represented all the things that are great about England, a true gentleman with kindness, humility, honour and integrity. Another bit of our heritage lost forever, Condolences to his family. Our lives are the poorer for his passing. What a sad day.
Janet White, West Romwich, England

I wrote for Sir John's autograph and got a reply from Hayley!
Ken Bailey, Mitcham, Surrey

My favourite memory of the great John Mills is when he insisted that food had to be eaten no matter how long it had been on the table. This was in the film The Family Way. I tried this with my daughters. My success rate was...nil!!
Les Woods of Lincoln, Lincoln, UK

You and your gifted daughters made me proud to have been born British Anne Docherty, Deux Montagnes, Canada

I was born at the end of the war in 1945, and going to the pictures was the highlight of my life. John Mills was easily recognisable and familiar to me. Thank you Sir John for some fabulous memories. You and your gifted daughters made me proud to have been born British. He is irreplaceable.
Anne Docherty, Deux Montagnes, Canada

A true legend! The next time I see one of his films, it will be with a mixture of great sadness and warmth of heart for such a wonderful man and a true English gent. My heart goes out to his family and friends. Sleep soundly Sir John.
Cheryl, Chippenham, UK

A truly fantastic actor and gentleman who inspired those in his profession and gave pleasure to those who admired him. He will be greatly missed
Samantha, Middle Kames, Scotland

A true Englishman and my favourite film star who acted in my favourite film of all time, This Happy Breed - thank you Sir John! You will be missed.
Anthony Berry, Burlington Canada

A great loss, but at least he had a good long life which brought joy to millions.
Mick, Hants

I fear that true gentlemen will become rarer now Sir John has left us Hayley Golding, Swanley

I am just so sad to hear of the death of Sir John. Although he was blessed with a long, fulfilling and joyful life, his modesty and gentlemanly air belied his natural talent and integrity. I fear that true gentlemen will become rarer now Sir John has left us!
Hayley Golding, Swanley

Not only a wonderful actor but a loving husband who raised good, productive children. We won't see his likes again soon. Rest in peace Sir John.
Dotty, Colonial Hgts, VA USA

Sir John was the epitome of a great Englishman. To this day his films of the 40s and 50s (particularly those of World War II when Britain was on its heels) are both an inspiration and a window into a time in British culture when things weren't so tarnished by today's merchants of doom and gloom.
Phil Allsopp, Detroit, Michigan, USA

Simply one of the greats, they don't make them in same way now.
Shane Boyd, Cork, Ireland

Sir John will live forever in his films. People not yet born will love his work, what a great life! Met him once in London - a true gent. Thank you Sir John, thank you.
Stephen Mowbray, Surrey

I'm close to 70-years-old, and can't remember a time when the name of John Mills has not been prominent in the world of film and theatre. Sad that you've left us, Sir John, but happy and grateful that you've left us with so much we can continue to enjoy.
M.Smith, Luton

One of the great British actors of all time during the Golden period of British cinema, there are not many who can make such a claim.
Martin Bailey, Liverpool

I always hear his voice in my head when I read Great Expectations Meg, Grantham

His portrayal of Pip in Great Expectations inspired me to read the book. I always hear his voice in my head when I read it! Thanks Sir John for all the entertainment you brought us.
Meg, Grantham

Sir John Mills. One of the reasons I decided to study theatre. There are few performances that can make one cry. The only performance by any actor which moves me so tremendously each time I see it, is that of Ezra Fitton in The Family Way. Rest In Peace, Sir John.
Laura Park, Kingston, Surrey

When you were feeling low or poorly, just putting on Hobson's Choice, Mr Polly or one of his war movies would give an immediate lift and your day would be much brighter. What a sad loss.
David Whatley, Barrow in Furness

A truly great actor who has left a body of work that will be cherished. Condolences to his family and friends.
Karen Juul, Westminster, MA

Sad occasion to hear of the parting of a truly great actor, performer and man of such wisdom, humility and strength. Having been raised on British b&w movies on TV since the 60s it has always been a pleasure to seek out and enjoy any film or TV that he chose to perform in. Interviews with Parkinson and others showed his real class and humanity. Something several generations of 'celebs' could learn from.
David, Auckland, New Zealand

A true British great Sharon Worthington, Staffordshire, UK

Hobson's Choice is one of the finest and most underated British films of all time.....truly one of Sir John's finest moments, he always be missed and never forgotten. A true British great.
Sharon Worthington, Stoke-On-Trent Staffordshire

A very sad loss. I well remember his famous portrayal of an ordinary seaman in 'In Which We Serve' as well as many other memorable roles later on in his great career. As others have already said, he was the quintessential Englishman and the world is all the poorer for his passing. RIP Sir John.
Colin Cumner, Adelaide, South Australia

It's a sad loss to England that Sir John Mills has died, but he leaves behind a legacy of works in which he epitomized the strengths, the weaknesses and the character of possibly the greatest generation of English people. I thought Ice Cold In Alex was a classic and The Family Way was a great film too, but that was just one of many great film roles. My thoughts go to his family.
Alan , Buffalo, NY

After all these years I am still moved to the core when I view the final scene from "The Family Way". Sir John's stern patriarchal character finally realizes that his eldest son was actually fathered by his long-lost best friend. He says to his son "Life may make you laugh at your age, but one day it'll make you bloody cry". That day has arrived for us all with the passing of this very great man.
Christopher Redford, Hamilton Canada

The beer scene at the end of Ice Cold In Alex is one of the finest moments in the cinema and Sir John Mills character made such an impression on me that I find it almost unbearable to miss the movie whenever it is broadcast.
Colin Campbell, Ulm, German

A couple of years ago Sir John came to Southend on Sea to unveil a plaque to Laurel and Hardy, it was an opportunity I could not miss. With camera in hand I attended his hotel with my sergeant, we were to provide security for him, and accompanied him to the pier and his return to the hotel. He was such a gentleman; he shook our hands and posed with us while his driver took some photographs. There is no point in my repeating all that every one else has said, I was fortunate enough to have felt and experienced his greatness, there are no words to express that feeling.
Gary, Westcliff, Essex

We miss you already. Rest in peace, Sir John. Words cannot express the pleasure you have given us all.
Susan Pape, Toronto, Canada

How could anyone who saw Ryan's Daughter forget the salivating, squinting, and limping character? John Mills was superb. His image will remain imprinted in my mind.
Joseph Francis, Addis Ababa

I'll always remember Sir John Mills playing Stanley Holloway's son in one of Britain's finest films, This Happy Breed. He was so adept in everything he did, and did not 'sell out' to Hollywood like so many of his colleagues. He appeared to put more in to his industry than he took out. We will miss him.
Ian Jennings, Kansas City, USA

Ice Cold in Alex is one of my all time favourite films. Thank you, Sir John, for your massive contribution to your art. British cinema and theatre lost its leading man today. Rest in peace. Best wishes to your family.
Matt, Oxford, England

On St. George's day, we fittingly say adieu Ed Hutchings, London

They don't make them like they used to. One of the greatest Englishmen ever to grace our screens and a true gentleman in every sense. On St. George's day, we fittingly say adieu, to another example of why you can be proud to be English.
Ed Hutchings, London

They don't make them like Sir John anymore. We will miss you.
Christina Lawrence, New York, USA

If there is a bar in heaven, I am sure Sir John will be enjoying an ice cold beer with many old pals. A great actor whose films will always bring joy to millions.
David Stowell, Ripley, UK

Sir John, one of the few men who deserved to be called Sir. You had a great innings. A long, enjoyable life - you deserved all 97 years of it. Come back and visit anytime!
Stewart Stevenson, Luton

Thank you Sir John, my memories are full of your wonderful films Andrew Cattermole, Newcastle upon Tyne, England

Thank you Sir John, my memories are full of your wonderful films. You represented what Britain was and how we wanted to be. Rest in Peace.
Andrew Cattermole, Newcastle upon Tyne, England

The way Sir John Mills portrayed characters in films about World War II I could almost imagine that he had served alongside both my grandfathers and as such brought their own stories about life between 1939 to 1945 (told to me as a boy between the ages of six and 15) to life. You typified how I would like to think my grandfathers and other British soldiers had behaved. Rest in peace, Sir John.
S Davis, Bridgnorth, Shropshire

Fantastic actor. Ryans Daughter, brilliant film. He must have been a really nice person to know. A great loss to whoever knew him.
Dave Curtiss, Kent

Brilliant actor - love all his films. The world has lost a true gentleman and a great actor. Rest in peace John.
ian more, reading berks

It's so sad. Sir John will be sadly missed. He truly was a Great. My favourite film - if you have to name only one, is Hobson's Choice - he is so believingly brilliant as Wil Mossop - loveable as he always was.
Jan Reid, Morden, Surrey

A very sad day indeed, we have lost a legend. Ryan's Daughter and Hobson's Choice, just two of his great performances.
David Aston, Manchester, UK

A truly memorable actor, who my mother, an avid filmgoer introduced me to, as a little girl Peggy-Sanger Hurwitz, Deptford, New Jersey, USA

A truly memorable actor, who my mother, an avid filmgoer introduced me to, as a little girl. We thoroughly enjoyed all his movies. Condolences to Hayley his daughter, who I am sure was very proud to have a father of his calibre.
Peggy-Sanger Hurwitz, Deptford, New Jersey, USA

A legend who leaves a wonder legacy behind to aspiring actors who only have to watch Hobson's Choice and his other outstanding silver screen classics.
Mike Bannister, Wolverhampton, UK

Such sad news. My sincere condolences to his family. What a great actor - you believed whatever role he played. God bless John.
Karen White, London, England

I am deeply saddened by the loss of Sir John Mills. I watched so many of his movies and loved the characters he portrayed. He lifted our spirits and gave us his heart. To all his family and friends, you have my deepest sympathy and prayers. Sincerely, Laura Willemse
Laura Willemse, Riverside, California, USA

I always loved Sir John. He was the quintessential English gentleman and an understated actor.
Margaret Grieve, West Covina, Ca. USA

The world will be a less interesting place now Sir John has gone.
Bryan, London, UK

Sir John has been an exceptional player in the film and theatre scene since my childhood, I send my sincerest condolences to his family. We have lost one of the best, in comedy and in drama. I will always remember ''Hobson's choice'' with joy.
Martain A Fiddis, Omagh, Co Tyrone, NI

They found his performance as Willie Mossop impressive and unforgettable Sandra Rutt, Auchterarder, Scotland

I have been doubly privileged to have seen many of Sir John Mills' film performances and to have had the joy of teaching about his film role as Willie Mossop in 'Hobson's Choice'. The class was convinced an old black and white film would be boring. They found his performance as Willie Mossop impressive and unforgettable.
Sandra Rutt, Auchterarder, Scotland

When I was stationed at RAF Upper Heyford in the late 70's and early 80's, I frequently came into the West End for the best theatre in the world. I particularly remember Sir John in a revival of "Separate Tables". His performance was simply marvelous! His film performances will keep us entertained for all time.
James Alexander, Allentown, USA

I feel that part of Britain has died today. Thank you Sir John Mills for what you had done. When I thought of England I thought of you. You will be missed by this Brit in the USA .
Neal Goodwin, Raleigh, NC, USA

We have lost a great actor and a gentleman. He loved living in Richmond, Surrey and I used to see him around in the sixties and seventies. I saw his one man show at the Richmond Theatre and that showed his greatness!
Bala Superamaniam, Sydney, Australia

Sir John Mills has passed away, but his carefully crafted characters will forever remain imprinted in our memories. Bravo Sir John!!
Paulo A. Pereira, Sao Paulo, Brazil

A truly great actor who enjoyed his job and will be missed by all Alex Drennan, Biggleswade

As actors go he was one of the best and we will not see his like again and his films will be his lasting tribute to a truly great actor who enjoyed his job and will be missed by all.
Alex Drennan, Biggleswade

A fantastic actor and a great bloke. Every film he was in brought a smile to the heart. A true great. He will be sadly missed, but what a lot he's given us. Thanks John.
Derek, Edinburgh, Scotland

I had the pleasure of meeting Sir John many years ago and still have his autograph to this day. One of England's greats.
Ken Harding, Stoke on Trent, Staffs

What a great life he lived and what a great legacy he leaves. He was the epitome of Englishness. Dunkirk and Ice Cold in Alex are two of my favourite films. He'll be sadly missed but never forgotten.
Bill Towning, Chesterfield, UK

I loved Sir John in Ryan's Daughter. What a marvellous actor. He certainly deserved the Oscar. God Bless him.
Fran Cummings, Pennsylvania, USA

A great actor and a wonderful man, thank you for all the pleasure you have given us, we will miss you God bless you Sir John.
Joe, London

There are precious few people that can truly be classed as legends. Sir John Mills was one of them. Modest and a gentleman to the end. Rest in peace.
Andrew Brogan, Leeds, England

He will be sorely missed. A fantastic actor, in our hearts he will be best remembered for his acting in Great Expectations. God bless the one and only Sir John Mills
The Hodgkins Family, Paignton, Devon

Goodbye Pip.
D. Bush, York

He was my first love when I was a child and has always had a very special place in my life Maria Waters, Teesside

He was my first love when I was a child and has always had a very special place in my life. A truly fabulous actor and a gentleman in the true sense of the word.
Maria Waters, Teesside

Sir John Mills was a leader in the world of film. He's a true legend, one of the greats: charming, talented and with a wonderful sense of humor. My deepest sympathies to Juliet, Hayley & Jonathan. Their loss is shared by fans all around the world. He's a star that will never stop shining.
Vicki Ahmad, Florida, USA

There is much debate about what it is to be English. Sir John answered many of those questions for me when I was a young man and still does.
Roland Powell, Barnsley

Many years ago I was lucky enough to work with Sir John at Her Majesty's Theatre, London. He was a truly delightful person: kind, amusing, and an absolute gentleman. I'm deeply saddened by the death of this great man. My sincere condolences go to his family who, like Sir John, are wonderful people.
Chris B, Bedford, England

A Sunday afternoon film with Sir John Mills - Absolute pleasure. That's how I will remember him. My sincere condolences to his family and friends.
David Nicholls, Milton Keynes, England

He was an engaging and inspiring actor. I especially enjoyed him in Cats and will miss looking forward to his next performance.
C. Miller, Ontario, Canada

We are much poorer for his passing. Robert Bartlett, Wimbledon, London

A true English gentleman of great manners, we are much poorer for his passing.
Robert Bartlett, Wimbledon, London

I used to see Sir John when I lived in Denham village back in the '70s. He always had time to talk to me and my friends despite being in our early teens and not really sure who he was then. In later years I have grown to love his acting ability in films made long before I was born. A sad loss, but what a great innings.
John Burns, Haverhill, UK

Such sad news. He was a gentleman and a brilliant actor who will be sadly missed. He left a legacy in the world of theatre and film that will be not be replaced by the current genre. Mary, Northants
Mary McLean, Northants

The end of an era. Thank you for what you have done on and off screen an inspiration to all. Rest in Peace Sir John. Condolences to all his family and friends he will not be forgotten.
Darren, Rugeley, Staffordshire

I can honestly say this with feeling and truth in my heart, he really was simply the best. The last of the greats of the British film industry, my all time favourite actor. His work will live on to celebrate a fine man and a wonderful actor, who is going to be greatly missed by everyone he touched.
Jennifer Hynes, Plymouth, UK

How fitting that a truly great Englishman said his goodbye on St George's Day Enid Miller, England

How fitting that a truly great Englishman said his goodbye on St Georges Day. God Bless you Sir John, my sympathies to your family, you were a truly great person. Sleep well.
Enid Miller, Harlow, England

Whether he made a good film or bad, it just didn't matter because it always seemed a good film simply because he was in it. A true great.
Tim Hurley, Royton, UK

An accomplished actor made all the more so by his modesty and humility. He made poor films shine and good films sparkle.
Neil Hardie, Aberdeen, Scotland

What a great actor and gentleman. Ice Cold in Alex was my favourite film of all time, a sad loss, but what a wonderful life.
Ray Netherton, Lincoln, England

One afternoon a few years ago, off work with depression, I watched History of Mr Polly. It was the turning point for me simply because John Mills performance made me laugh out loud. He was a National Treasure and will be sorely missed. My sincere condolences to his family and friends.
Avril Field-Taylor, Hull, UK

Such a terrific actor. So many hours of enjoyment he gave us. so many wonderful movies. One of the few who exemplified all that is best in the English character. We shan't see his like again. May you rest in peace, Sir John.
Veronica, Port Hope, Canada

A great actor, a great talent, a great man, a great loss. Simply put Sir John was just great!
Sue Smith, Cambridge

Sadly, another of the greats has passed away. So many of my favourite films have starred Sir John. His memory will live with his films. I, as one of many, will lovingly watch him in them. God Bless!
Alasdair Macbeth, Eastbourne, East Sussex.

Sir John has been my hero since I was young and not only did I admire his great acting talent but also his decency, love of life and charity work. He has left us with a wonderful legacy of work that will live on forever. He was called "Mr England" and he was indeed showed the very best of British.
Simon Endacott, Chingford, London

There are not many like him left, an Englishman through and through. He will be missed.
Doug, Horsted Keynes West Sussex

John Mills was a part of my life in the way that he was there on the screen when I was a child and there still well into my late adulthood. He defined an era in British cinema and will be greatly missed for that.
Roy Brown, Southend-on-Sea

He was a true icon of honour and integrity whose performances were never less than extraordinary. This is a very sad day, indeed.
Michael, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA

What a sad day for the film industry. We will all miss you Sir John, you have left behind some wonderful work and will never be forgotten. God bless you and your family.
Melvyn Parkin, Surrey, U.K

I'm sad. Sir John Mills was a wonderful actor. Although I'm only 22, I can remember watching Great Expectations with my father and it was a wonderful film with a wonderful cast. Sympathy to his family - Hayley is something of a heroine of mine.
Lois, Barry, Wales

If anyone is deserving of the title of "most versatile actor of all time", that title must surely go to Sir John Mills. Every role he played, from Ordinary Seaman, to Submarine Captain, to Pip, to Scott of the Antarctic, he played to perfection. So rest well, Sir John!
Nigel Baldwin, Portsmouth, UK

A grand old star of British cinema who made it to a grand old age. A man of many talents who was loved by many for the various roles he played. We will miss you, John.
Mr Sherry, Ipswich, UK

Quatermass haunted my youth. What a brilliant actor.
Chris Adams, UK

We have lost a true gentleman, in every sense of the word A Mackenzie, Felixstowe

We have lost a true gentleman, in every sense of the word. Along with many, I am sure, I feel a great personal grief at his passing. He will be really missed across the country.
A Mackenzie, Felixstowe, Suffolk

One word - class.
Patrick Gray, Carlisle, Cumbria

I've been dreading this day for such a long time. The world will be a poorer place without you John.
Nigel Bedrock, Houston, USA, ex-UK

God bless him. Sir John has given my family many film memories that will last forever. He outlasted all his acting colleagues. What a reunion there must be in heaven now!
Geoff Holman, London, UK

A true Brit - who portrayed the best traditions and honour that we are known for - and will provide an enduring legacy for generations to come in the way he portrayed England at its best.
Peter Ericson, Hereford, UK

An absolute legend. Who will be missed dearly. God Bless.
Neil, Milton Keynes

Good bye Dear Sir John. You were a great gentleman and superb actor especially in Royal Navy's movies.
Kenneth Heselwood, Brussels, Belgium

We have lost one of this country's greatest actors. But lives on in his films. Rest in peace.
Paul, Bath

What sad news, he was a true gentleman and a wonderful actor. My sincere condolences to his family.
Christine Skilton, Chertsey, England

It saddens me greatly to hear that one of the last true English gentlemen, and one of our finest actors, has left us. He changed my attitude to O' level literature after seeing him in Hobsons choice, and I have admired his work ever since. A great loss indeed.
Claire Robinson, Crewe, England.