James R. Mitchell

With heavy hearts, the family of James R. Mitchell shares his passing. Better known as Jim, he went home in the most peaceful fashion surrounded by family in his Gulfport, Miss. home.

In Jim’s 69 years on this earth, he spent 26 of them protecting and traveling our country, serving in the U.S. Navy. He grew up in the small town of Cloverdale and graduated from CHS in 1971.

Although a proud retired military man, he notably recognized the biggest accomplishment in his life being his family. While in the U.S. Navy, he found the love of his life, his loyal wife Sharon, of 49 years, who still resides in Gulfport.

Jim is survived by his loving mother, Jennie Allen of Sebring, Fla., and three incredible children. Tabitha Molina married to Steve Molina, parents to Blake (wife Paige), Mitchell (wife Hannah Mae) and Amber Bisso (husband Brandon Bisso), who have provided Jim with six great-grandchildren – Mack and Casey, Bjorn and Amelia and Blakely and Beckham, all reside in the Atlanta, Ga. area; Cathy VanMatre married to Ryan VanMatre, parents of Gavin, Madi and Macy, reside in Sheridan. Dana Mitchell married to Stephanie Mitchell, parents to Kyleigh Mitchell (Indianapolis) and Charlee Blocker reside in Cloverdale. Brother-in-law Vann Pickard resides in Gulfport, extended family, in-laws, outlaws, friends, neighbors, shipmates — too many to mention that are left behind, mourning the loss of this one man.

Aside from his enjoyment from being on the water, Jim was a fan of music. You could often catch him and Sharon at a live show. He was a car guy, a fondness he shared with many family members. Among these best moments of his life, it was always certain to include his wife, his family, conversations and laughter.

Jim’s close and loving family plan to memorialize him by returning his ashes to the waters, that he embraced, with full military honors.

A celebration of life will be held at Robe-Ann Park Shelter No. 1 in Greencastle on July 16 from 2-5 p.m. for all who wish to attend.

In honor of James R. Mitchell, July 21, 1953 – May 24, 2023, kindly embrace your family as a tribute to our family’s loss.