Gary Duane Mitchell, 83, of Sparta, passed away Oct. 12, 2023, at his residence. He was surrounded by his loving family members who will fondly cherish each memory.
Gary was born Dec. 2, 1939, in Sparta, to Herbert W. and Will Alma Broyles Mitchell.
Gary graduated White County High School, in 1959. He was an avid basketball player, playing from seventh grade until graduation and lettering all four years of high school. He loved his Tennessee Vols football and enjoyed attending games until his health prevented him. Gary loved to relive the games he attended with his friends during the 50's and 60's and could give exact scores and scoring players right up until his death. He was an insurance salesman starting with Kentucky Central Life and ending with Life of Georgia. Gary was a deacon and later an elder at his beloved First Christian Church where he attended all his life. His love for his family was preceded only by his love for his Lord and Savior.
Gary was preceded in death by his parents; grandparents, Isaac and Mattie England Mitchell, William Mansfield and Perilla Shockley Broyles; and a sister, Carolyn Mitchell Hickey.
Survivors include his wife of 59 years, Betty Davis Mitchell, who he married Nov. 23, 1963; daughter, Becky (Hank) Golden, Samuel West (Tasha) Mitchell; granddaughters, Kim (James) Knapp, Leslie (Sean) Melton, Ava Mitchell, Mallory Mitchell, Addison Mitchell, Skylar Green; grandsons, T.C. (Lyndee) Good, Tyler Good; great-granddaughters, Kady Brymer, Becklee Melton, Tynslee Good, Paislee Good; great-grandsons, Jordan Brymer, Kolton Denton, Lyle Melton; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Hunter Funeral Home has been entrusted with Gary’s cremation, and a memorial service will be conducted 1 p.m., Oct. 21, 2023, at First Christian Church, with burial of ashes to follow in Highland Cemetery. The family will receive friends 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Oct. 21, at the church. Trevor Trahan and Rick Conley will officiate.
Roger Howell, David Howell, Raymond Wilhite, Chet Gentry, grandsons, and great-grandsons will serve as honorary pallbearers.
Hunter Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
