James “Jim” Franklin Mitchell, 86, of Lenoir passed away on Saturday, August 3, 2024 at College Pines Nursing Home following a period of declining health.

Jim was the ninth child born to the late Elvie Lonnie Mitchell and Mary Jane Rose Mitchell November 11, 1937, in McDowell County, West Virginia. He served honorably in the United States Air Force for four years where he worked as an airplane mechanic. From 1960 to 1980 Jim worked as a police officer in Washington DC. Jim was a champion golfer and was known to his golfing buddies as Mitch. He enjoyed playing with his friends at Orchard Hills.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his daughter, Melinda M. Kirby Vinson; brothers, Clarence Robert Mitchell, Walter William “Junior”  Mitchell, Leland Dempsey (LD) Mitchell, and Jesse Crocket Mitchell; sisters, Ethel Francis M. Musick, Margaret Lucille M. Beavers, Sylvia Sue  M. Belcher, Dorothy Lee  M. Bignotti Pack, Eleanor Ann M. Tolbert Moore, Ruth Genieve  M. Kotsalis, and  Gena Carol (Beanie) M Leeson Hodges; and brother-in-law, Abel Roger Kirby.

He is survived by his wife of sixty-three years, Grace Kirby Mitchell; son, Eric C. Mitchell; grandsons, Brandon Kirby, Tyler J. Mitchell, Ryan C. Mitchell, granddaughter, Katy Mitchell; great-granddaughter, Addison Kirby and one that is expected in October; nieces, Susan M. Pierson and Rosemary Eilas; nephews, Peter Bignotti, Frank Bignotti; great-nephew, Jeffery Rush; and many other loving numerous nieces and nephews. Also surviving is his sister-in-law, Betsy Kirby; and brother-in-law, Greg Kirby.

A graveside service will be held on Monday August 12, 2024, at 11:00 AM at Union Grove Baptist Church with Pastor Sam Craven officiating.

Military honors will be provided by the United States Air Force and the Caldwell County Honor Guard.

Memorials may be made to Union Grove Baptist Church at 1808 Union Grove Rd., Lenoir, NC 28645.

Mackie Funeral Service and Crematory is assisting the family.