Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Add a Memory
Make a Donation
Jeff Mitchell Obituary
"You wouldn't call him a narrow goody two-shoes," said his childhood friend, Paul Kelly, now a sergeant with the San Jose police. "He got into the same scrapes as the rest of us. But he was the first one to say, 'Nope, I did wrong,' or 'Here's how I can help.' " He always had that damn smile on his face."
As of 3:30 a.m. last Friday, the smile exists only in memory, an aching reminder of loss. Mitchell, 38, a Sacramento County sheriff's deputy, was shot fatally in the head after stopping a white Chevy van in a rural part of the county near the Jackson Highway.
Over the weekend, Sacramento County Sheriff John McGinness issued an impassioned plea for the public's help in finding Mitchell's killer, telling the media that the deputy appeared to have struggled with his assailant.
In the South Bay, where Mitchell grew up playing on the ball fields of the Campbell Little League, a clutch of his closest friends from Westmont gathered after the news broke to rehash their memories of "Mitch."
"Jeff was one of those guys who could cheer up a room," said another friend, Doug Thurman, who went on to become an assistant basketball coach for San Jose State University. "He was someone whose first instinct was to think about others instead of himself."
A story underscores the point. When Mitchell was in the Air Force, he was so meticulous that he almost always won the days off given to the sharpest man in uniform. Instead of taking them himself, he would give them to a comrade who he thought needed them more. "People would say, 'Is he really that nice?' " remembered an Air Force buddy, Terrell Jones.
That was in keeping for a guy who placed a premium on loyalty to friends, a guy who excelled at athletics not because he was looking for a scholarship -- but because of the sheer joy of the game.
At Westmont, which had superb baseball teams under coach Gordon Huntze, Mitchell was known as a gifted player whose speed allowed him to play center field confidently and stretch hits into doubles or triples. In his senior year, he was an all-West Valley League player.
He surprised his friends by enlisting in the Air Force out of high school, doing a five-year stint that included service in Kuwait during the Persian Gulf War and an assignment in the security police.
After getting a degree at California State University-Sacramento, where he met his wife, Crystal, he worked for a couple of years as a substitute teacher before joining the sheriff's department as a physical education instructor at the Rio Cosumnes Correctional Center.
Even there, he refused to let the ordinarily toxic guard-inmate relationship dim his optimism. "He went the extra mile," recalled his friend Thurman of Mitchell's work with the inmates. "He wouldn't just roll out the balls. He'd actually design programs for them."
In 2000, Mitchell began in the patrol division, and characteristically, he took one of the least-desired beats -- graveyard in the eastern end of the county, which was dotted with methamphetamine labs. It was an assignment that let him play with his son in the afternoons and see his wife for dinner.
In Sacramento, investigators are still baffled by what happened early Friday near Meiss and Dillard roads, where Mitchell alerted dispatchers that he was stopping a white van with no license plate and one occupant.
The investigators say he typed in "I'm OK," meaning that he didn't feel endangered. Not long afterward, however, something went dreadfully wrong. Mitchell's radio was "keyed," meaning that it sent a clucking sound to the dispatchers. That could have been a result of a fight or an attempt to ask for help.
In a Sunday news conference, Sheriff McGinness said that a violent struggle apparently broke out at the rear of Mitchell's patrol car, leading investigators to think that Mitchell was trying to take the man into custody.
The sheriff said Mitchell's gun was fired once -- but it is unclear whether the bullet that killed him came from his own gun or another. It took 20 minutes for the nearest deputy to reach him.
Investigators have ruled out one tantalizing lead: They say tests have shown that a white Chevy van found partially submerged in the Cosumnes River Friday night with a man and woman dead inside was apparently not linked to Mitchell's killing.
Mitchell took pride in keeping himself fit. His friends say it's unlikely that a stranger could have taken him unaware. All of this has led them to think that maybe Mitchell knew the person he was stopping. Whether that's true or not, they say it would not have been out of character for him to want to help.
"What made him special is that he always looked for the good in people, always," Jones said. "It didn't matter who it was. He was optimistic about everything."
A memorial service is scheduled for 11 a.m. Friday at Raley Field, 400 Ballpark Drive in West Sacramento, the home of the minor-league River Cats.
Memories and Condolences
for Jeff Mitchell
47 Entries
ALLEN CHITWOOD
October 16, 2022
Rest in Peace Officer Mitchell. Thank you for your service. I graduated from Westmont in 1972.
Kris (Davis) Limm
November 9, 2006
I first met Jeff at Rolling Hills Jr. High. I was charmed by his sparkling eyes, and of course, that smile, but mostly by the way that Jeff loved to laugh. The image of him laughing remains in my mind; it was just so natural. We remained friends in high school where he reminded me as he signed my senior yearbook to come back to watch a baseball game sometime. I'm so glad to know that he was able to share his love of baseball with his son.
Although I never made it back to WHS for a basball game, I found it ironic that we should end up living in the same town. I saw Jeff a few years ago walking with Crystal and Jake and I got to see that famous smile once again. Although we didn't keep the connection, I used to look for him around town and recently saw him driving his famous "Line Drive" truck in front of me when I was driving down EDH Blvd. I followed as long as I could, but didn't get a chance to say hello. I think it's great that our kids will likely end up as classmates at Oak Ridge High School here in EDH.
Back at Rolling Hills, I knew that Jeff was a special guy. Listening to his close friends speak about him at the Thursday night gathering last week confirmed what I already knew. My friendship with Jeff was brief by comparison but he touched me profoundly, and I will not forget him or his smile or the way that he loved to laugh.
My deepest sympathies to Crystal and Jake and the whole Mitchell family.
Donna (Valles) Bullinger
November 9, 2006
In 2001 I moved from the Campbell area to Cameron Park with my family. A couple months later, my mom and her husband moved to a neighborhood called The Hills of El Dorado. Kris Davis told me that Jeff and his family live there as well but didn't know exactly where. I had not seen Jeff in FOREVER and I only remember what he looked like as a young boy.
One day I saw him out in front of his house (which was on the way to my mom's house!) and I knew right away it was him...yes, because of that brilliant smile. I saw him several times outside but never stopped to say hello because I made the mistake of thinking "ah, he won't remember me" and "ah, he won't care". That is something I will always regret. Especially after attending the Thursday night service and hearing so much about the man he became. I now know that Jeff would have cared and we would have laughed as we talked about the goofy times when he would come over to Kris' house (I lived across the street) all those years ago.
As few memories as there were, they were good and I will cherish them always. And when I see him again, I will definitely say hello and we can laugh about those goofy days!
My thoughts and prayers are with Crystal, Jake and their families.
Dave McKinnon
November 9, 2006
I can honestly say that Jeff was one of, if not the most truly genuine guys I knew. He was one of those guys that had such a positive outlook on life. You wanted to be around him. Even when he was a kid, he'd be looking out for others and be genuinely concerned about their well-being. He certainly was a rare individual. I can remember when younger guys (like myself) would move up from Frosh-Soph to Varsity he would be so helpful in showing them the ropes. He was an incredible leader and role model.
Growing up with Jeff Mitchell as a classmate/teammate/friend, I feel truly blessed to have known him. I have been coaching now for many years and from the time I first began coaching, I've emphasized some of the techniques that I learned from Jeff. The way he'd run (pullin' the rope-some of you may remember that), the outright hustle and passion he had for making himself and others better, the positive motivation of others, the incredible work ethic he had, and of course the very obvious and uplifting smile. He truly does make one strive to be a better person. I know I will strive to be one as well because of him. Jeff touched the hearts of many people in his life in such a positive way. I'll miss you Jeff. You've been such a positive impact on my life. I thank you for that.
My prayers go out to the family at this time.
Shannon (Gibbs) Morgan
November 8, 2006
I moved to Campbell when I was 7 and was enrolled in 2nd grade at Capri, seated right next to Jeff. We were together every year after that through elementary school. We even had Chicken Pox together. We always had the same group of friends and were close. In high school, when our group of friends changed, Jeff would still stop by on his way home, to say "Hi" and see how I was doing. Those visits meant the world to me. He was such a kind and generous person and even though I didn't see him for many years, his death is a tremendous loss for me and my family. I feel so blessed that he was such a big part of my life because in knowing him and remembering him, I am a better person. My thoughts and prayers go to his beautiful wife and adorable son. I hope they find strength in knowing how much Jeff loved them and how much he was loved.
Amy Tarczy (Bricmont)
November 7, 2006
On Friday, November 24th (The day after Thanksgiving) I will be at Khartoum in Campbell at 6pm to raise a glass in honor of Jeff Mitchell. Anyone who would like to join me in this and a little reminiscing, please do so. I just really feel the need to do something in his honor and memory. I know many of you are too far away to do this, but perhaps you can hoist one around the same time. I hope at least some of us can get together to talk about a truly exceptional man.
Greg Thurman
November 7, 2006
Unfortunately, I did not get to know Jeff very well. The few times we did have an encounter, he was always a very genuine, kind and "cool" person. I believe he was an icon and symbol of what a true friend ought to be. If there is anyone I would wish to emulate, it would be Jeff for his "many" outstanding attributes. My condolences to all who knew him, and especially his family.
Tracie (Banks) Campbell
November 7, 2006
I remember Jeff from high school even though I didn't know him personally. He was always friendly and smiling. I was deeply saddened to hear of his passing. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family.
Mary (Kurtz) Trimble
November 7, 2006
when the name Jeff Mitchell comes up everyone smiles and says "Yes, I remember him. He was such a great guy." What a wonderful way to be remembered. My prayers go out to his family. He certainly will be missed.
Heidi (Prebil) Konarski
November 7, 2006
It is amazing how one person can have the same positive effect on every person who knew him. In reading these entries, and hearing such wonderful words spoken at his memorial service, people who didn’t know Jeff well have been provided with such a clear and an accurate picture of the person he was. In the week from his death and leading to his memorial, so many positive things were said about Jeff - his kindness, compassion, love of life and family. It is almost hard to believe that such a truly good person existed. It is such a shame that he wasn’t given an opportunity to be with us longer, and to have more of a positive impact on so many others. My heart goes out to his wife, son, family and close friends. I can only imagine the void in their lives his passing has left.
Greg Renner
November 7, 2006
Our prayers go out to Jeff and all of his family.
Denise Lumley Sacramento County Sheriff Dept Dispatch
November 6, 2006
I worked with Jeff at the Sacramento County Sheriff's Dept. I found this guest book via a link from our K9 web site. What an honor I feel to read all these entries and to have had this very special person work along side me. I never meet Jeff face to face...I am the voice on the other side of the radio. From all accounts it appears that I missed out on a very wonderful smile. Jeff was the type of Deputy that handled his business and did as I asked, never having a bad thing to say..or a whine to toss my way. While I sat at the memorial the same thought kept playing over and over in my mind .. "what a great person". At the reception, I spoke to many of my coworkers, and they all seemed to have the same thoughts "I can only hope when my time comes, people will remember my good qualities". I got the impression that Jeff only had good qualities. I wanted to post on this site, to share with all of you, my saddness for your loss. When I am sad over the loss of Jeff, I picture that smile and do my best to smile back! God Bless all of you and may time heal this wound.
Jeff Place
November 6, 2006
I will always remember Jeff for his competitive spirit and how nice of guy he was. He always had a positive attitude and a smile on his face.
Doug Thurman
November 6, 2006
One of the things that hurts the most is that I can't make one last phone call to Mitch, to tell him about all the support and love he has received over the past week. I spoke with Mitch a week before our 20th reunion, urging him to go with us. Of course, as was the usual for Mitch, as much as he wanted to he couldn't tear himself away from his shift that night. "I just can't leave my team short," he said. He loved his job. On my list of things to do last week was to call him, and let him know about each and every person that inquired about him at the reunion--so many. He would have told me to "get out of here," with that famous chuckle, and then changed the subject to anything but himself. He would have asked about everyone, listening intently, sincerely caring about each of your lives. And if you ever saw him again, he would have remembered the details. My eulogy to him hasn't stopped since Friday's service--story after story, each coming with a flood of emotion. Some of the names of those who have left thoughts on this guest book may not mean anything to Crystal or Jake, but the words you have written certainly will. I know that she and Jake will treasure this someday, and I encourage you to tell a friend to write, even one that didn't know him--because everyone was a friend to Mitch! And remember, "you don't have to have a reason to smile."
Chrissy (Young) Presley
November 6, 2006
Dear Mitchell Family,
I do not even know where to start to express my deepest sympathies to you all. To tell you what a wonderful and sweet person Jeff was is an understatement. My most sincere wish for you all is to hold tight to the memories and gain comfort in knowing that he has left a dramatic impact on this earth and will never be forgotten. Every person that met Jeff will remember his kindness and sincerity.
To little Jake, please know that your daddy was one of a kind and a hero to all who knew him. You are a beautiful little boy and there is no doubt in my mind that you will grow up to be just like him.
I am very thankful for the wonderful memories I have of Jeff. He was a very special friend and will always be with me. Rest in peace my friend and may God bless and comfort your family.
Nicci Hamamura
November 6, 2006
I was shock to hear the bad news about one of our classmates. My deepest sympathies go out to the Mitchell family. My thoughts of him ran threw my mind from elementary school thru high school.I read that article about him, what accompliments he made in the shortness of his life. His son should be really proud of his dad. Again my sympathies go out to the Mitchell Family.
Debbie Pennington
November 6, 2006
I've known Jeff since kindergarden at Capri Elementary School. He was a kind and caring person who had a smile that would light up the room. My prayers and thoughts go out to his family.
Wendy (deWaard) Steinkamp
November 6, 2006
I went to jr. high and high school with Jeff. He was one of those rare individuals that always stay with you. Jeff just had a way about him that touched lives; a natural kindness and genuine smile that will never be forgotten.
Tim Alcocer
November 5, 2006
Wes, Steve and Greg,
I'm sorry to hear of the tragic passing of Jeff.
I have fond memories of Jeff bugging me to play catch with him that Summer ('75) when Wes and I were on that Colt All-star team... It's funny..years later I had the opportunity to Coach at Santa Clara University with John Oldham, we had a game at Sac State and Jeff happened to be there! I remember him approaching me and asking if I'd remembered him. We had a nice conversation after the game.
He was always a nice polite guy!
My thoughts and prayers go out to his wife, son and his family
Julie (Moher) Klenske
November 5, 2006
My is Julie Klenske (Moher) and I went to Jr high and high school with Jeff. I remember Jeff as a person who always had a positive attitude and that trademark smile to go with it. Having recently attended our 20 year high school reunion, I was very disappointed to not see Jeff. He wasn't someone that I thought about regularly but due to the reunion he had recently been on my mind. I was then so saddened to hear the news of his death.
I attended his memorial service this week and was very moved. Jeff was a truly rare and exceptional human being. He was so kind to everyone and was so universally well liked. He touched so many lives in a very positive way. I left his memorial with the reality that we should all be more like him. I especially should take notice and appreciate all that I have been given. Based on the outpouring of love and affection at his memorial, I realized that although he was taken by God at the young age of 38, he had lived life to his fullest. He was an exemplary husband, father, friend and servant to the community. He made an indelible mark on so many and he will never be forgotten. I know that because of him I will try to smile more often and stop to smell the roses. We will miss you Jeff. Thank your for sharing your life with us. God bless you and your family.
Patrick Connell
November 5, 2006
Even though I have not seen Jeff in quite a few years, he is always in my memories. We played sports together for a number of years and Jeff was always cheering everyone on and so full of energy. He will be sorely missed. The best ones always go before their time. The world was a better place because Jeff Mitchell was here.
Stacey Turcotte
November 5, 2006
My deepest prayers go out to all whose lives were touched by Jeff. I remember him most from 6th grade and at Rolling Hills, he had a sincere sweetness about him. He truly contributed and made a difference in this world. His bravery is an inspiration and I am certain will continue to reflect in those who were closest to him.
Amy Tarczy (Bricmont)
November 4, 2006
As I finished my entry and looked back at all of yours, I was so moved by how we all have the exact same memory of Jeff. It hit me like a kick in the gut to hear of his death. I had not seen hm since high school, but it doesn't matter. We were all a part of one another's lives way back when and those experiences helped to shape who we are now. I take this opportunity to express to all of my old friends, classmates and acquaintances that I hope you are all living wonderful, love-filled lives. May we all take a lesson from the way Jeff treated people and keep him alive by spreading kindness. Peace to all of you. Amy B.
Amy Bricmont
November 4, 2006
I knew Jeff since we were in kindergarten at Capri School. He was never mean or snotty to anyone, even though he was popular and handsome. I will always remember his twinkly blue eyes and his ready smile. He was a truly good guy. My heart aches for his wife and child. If the world were full of guys like Jeff Mitchell, it would be a very happy place. Jeff, thank you for every smile. Thank you for serving this world so bravely and kindly. Anyone who knew you will miss your presence on this Earth.
Danette Armstrong (Wallace)
November 4, 2006
My name is Danette Armstrong (Wallace)and I went to Jr. High and High School with Jeff.We were in a few classes together and although we didn't have the same group of friends, as he was one of the "popular people" I remember him as being so kind and nice to EVERYONE, it didn't matter if you were a geek nerd or whatever, he always took the time to say Hi and flash you that million dollar smile, and when he smiled at me it made my day, as I had a secret crush on him when we were freshmen. Jeff will be trully missed by so many. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and to his little boy. I hope someday he knows just how special his daddy was. May you rest in peace Jeff.
Halle Treanor
November 4, 2006
I always remember Jeff as being bright, and open and friendly in high school - and Yes - that amazing smile! My thoughts and prayers go out to your friends and family.
Miles Wical
November 4, 2006
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life’s routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Mindy White
November 4, 2006
I will never forget the day I heard of Jeffs death, my heart hurt. He was such a wonderful person. Jeff always had a smile on his face and a positive attitude. He was such a pleasure to be around. God Bless his wife and son!
Diana (Stamatis) Dalton
November 4, 2006
From the moment I heard his name on the news I flashed back to my Jr. High & High School days. His smile had become so ingrained in our minds that I don't think anyone can ever forget him. We did not hang out in the same crowds but Jeff never drew lines like that. He was such a genuine guy. I am sure that anyone that came in contact with him feels a loss no matter how well or for how long they knew him. The years may pass but his smile will shine brightly forever in our hearts.
My deepest sympathies for the family, friends and community that lost such a grand man.
Tim Rees
November 4, 2006
I knew Jeff while playing baseball at Campbell little League and he always had that smile on his face win or lose. I also attended Westmont with Jeff and that smile was still always there. Jeff was one of the good guys and friend to everyone. The world has lost a true hero. We will all miss Jeff very much.
Bobbie Wion
November 4, 2006
I just returned from Jeff's Memorial Service last night, this man was honored with class, diginity and most of all, love by all, you are a true hero. I babysat this man when he was a young boy, and have kept very close to his Mom ever since, I know how he grew up to be the finest of the finest. People should take a lesson on how he treated all individuals, no matter who they were. My heart goes out to his family, you are my family. I send my love to you all now and forever. May the love you all have for one another give you strength to heal and cherish all the wonderful memories you had with Jeff. See the reflection of Jeff in his son and know that he still lives.
Sandy (Pitcock) McKeithan
November 3, 2006
The news of Jeff's death has saddened me so much...although I haven't seen him since high school, this event has affected me deeply. I grieve for the wife who lost her husband, and for the little boy who's lost his daddy. In high school, I got to know Jeff's family well. He was truly one of the good guys - he will be remembered always. And yes, so will his smile.
Diana Barbatti Morrison
November 3, 2006
To The Mitchell Family,
How could anyone forget that smile, the sweet honesty... and ohhh those eyes! He was the whole package. REALLY. He was filled with goodness and it rubbed off on those around him. We were all so blessed to have had him as an example.
Funny story... On summer break during college I was dating Jeff Mitchell (Brett Mitchell's older brother- also known as the older Jeff Mitchell) At some point I sent him a sweet card in the mail but he never got it. A few weeks later I got a letter back from the younger Jeff Mitchell saying it was "so nice for me to stay in contact". I just about died that I messed up the addresses in my book. Anyway, he never even mentioned that he must have thought that I was OUT OF MY MIND for having sent a card like that to someone that I hadn't seen in a while. Needless to say, he was a true gentleman if you ask me.
Thanks Jeff for making me smile. My prayers are for your lovely wife and beautiful son.
Sheila Banks Farrauto
November 3, 2006
Although I haven't seen Jeff since we graduated from Westmont, I was deeply saddened by the news of his death. One of my first thoughts was of his bright smile. I don't remember a time of seeing Jeff without it. After attending the memorial service today, I know that his smile never faded. The outpouring of love and respect for him was overwhelming and everyone spoke of his warm smile. I pray his smile will live on with his beautiful son, Jake and that Jake will learn what a wonderful person is father was. My thoughts and prayers are with the Mitchell family and the Sac County Sheriff's Department today and in the months ahead.
Shane Bailey
November 3, 2006
I have known Jeff for almost 30 years and in them I can"t remember him not smiling. He always had the knack of making everyone around him smile. The Westmont Warriors have lost a true warrior that no one can replace. I pray for the Mitchell family and may God be with them. I know it is tough for everyone right now but I am sure Jeff is smiling in Heaven right now telling us all that everything is alright
The McGregor Family
November 3, 2006
To the family of Jeff Mitchell:
May the loving memories and affection of Jeff help ease your pain today. The days ahead are sure to be tough ones, but know that God makes plans we cannot comprehend. His plan will one day be revealed to you. Believe and find comfort in knowing Jeff was doing what he loved most and what he swore to do.
To Sac County Sheriff Dept:
Thank you for your dedication to ALL your officers, including Jeff. Your commitment to keeping our community safe is a blessing. Find comfort in his memory and the loving impression he left on many. He may be physically gone but his spirit will live on for eternity in the work of Sac County Sheriffs and all law enforcement.
With warmest regards and sincere sympathy,
Joe Jean
November 3, 2006
As a classmate of Jeff's at Westmont, I remember Jeff as one of the real nice guys. Jeff was always positive and always seemed to be in a good mood. I have not been in touch with Jeff for over 20 years but from what I have heard and read from everyone his great attitude never changed. I was greatly sadened by the news. We have lost a great man. My thoughts and prayers go out to the Mitchell family. God Bless.
Sandi (Catalana) Phillips
November 3, 2006
My name is Sandi(Catalana)Phillips. I knew the Mitchell family from Campbell Little League where Jeff, his brothers and my brother, Michael, played. My family is so sorry to hear of the loss of a beautiful person as he was. The thoughts of many are with your family at this time of sorrow.
Elizabeth Delzer
November 2, 2006
I was asked when I went to Westmont High School if I remembered a Jeff Mitchell. I wasn't too sure, so I got out my yearbooks, and there was that "smile". Then when I found out what happened, I was greatly saddened. To all his family and friends, may the faith we all have together get us through this difficult time.
Tim Jones
November 2, 2006
As a fellow deputy Jeff, thank you for being a hero! You will be missed and rememberd by your law enforcement family. We went to Rolling Hills and Westmont together. I'll never ever forget your smile in the hallways. I don't think there was ever a day where I didn't see you smile! Thanks for putting your life on the line. The courage you gave to your family and community will never return empty to those lives you've touched. Good bye fellow brother. See you up there!
Deputy Tim H. Jones
Spokane County Sheriffs Office
Spokane, Washington
Eric, Wayne & Marilyn Miller
November 2, 2006
I met Jeff while playing Campbell Little League baseball. We played from little league through Westmont. He always cared for others before himself. He took pride while performing in sports and always gave his best effort. My condolences go out to the Mitchell family, friends, and members of the Sacramento Sheriff's department. He will be missed.
Chris Bailey
November 2, 2006
Jeff and I played little league baseball together but we really didn’t meet until we played together on his father’s team in the Campbell-Moreland Pony League. There, I got to meet the whole Mitchell family. His brother Greg was also on the team and the following year, as his father and brother Greg moved up to the Colt league, one of Jeff’s other brothers, Steve, took over as Manager of the team. Those two years meant a lot to me, getting to know Jeff and the entire Mitchell family. What I remember most about Jeff during those years was that he was a winner, through and through. There was nothing “routine” about a ground ball hit by Jeff Mitchell, because he had every intention on beating out that play by diving, arms out, into first base. And, he had the speed to do it too. Those few times he didn’t beat that play were the only times I didn’t see him wearing his famous smile, but that didn’t last long. Jeff’s smile, made you smile, you just couldn’t help it. He was so happy that he put you in a great mood just being around him. I also went to high school with Jeff at Westmont. From little league to high school he remained the same guy, a winner, with a smile that made those around him remember him forever. Even though we lost touch over the years, as so many of us do, his life touched mine so much that I genuinely feel that I am a better person for have known him.
My prayers go out to Jeff and the Mitchell family in this tragic time.
Todd Bellistri
November 2, 2006
Jeff and I played basketball on the Westmont high school team. The smile, and always-positive attitude were unique to Jeff. Even though I have not been in touch with Jeff for over 20 years, the sad news has touched me deeply. The stories I have heard from Jeff's closest friends remind me of the great memories from our childhood. We have lost a great man who touched all he came in contact with. The prayers of my family are with Jeff's wife and son.
Kevin Browne
November 2, 2006
Jeff and I went to Westmont High together and played on the basketball team. Jeff was a great guy. He always led by example, he had a quiet confidence about him. I will forever remember him leading sprints at the end of basketball practice and the positive attitude he carried. He always wished everyone the best and never had a bad thing to say about anyone.
The world will miss him. God bless his family.
Patrice Brewer
November 2, 2006
I remember the first time I met Jeff at Rolling Hills, he was quiet, and kinda shy. But that smile of his was like a warm light, inviting you in, welcoming you. I believe that Jeff is one of those rare human beings meant to be an angel on earth. Touching people everywhere he went. Touching some with a smile, others with his kind heart, and showing some of us (who needed it) what it's like to be a beautiful person. I pray that one day his son will get a chance to understand what a wonderful person his father was, and what a difference he made in so many lives. Stay strong Mitchell family and let Jesus carry you through this storm. Rely on his strength. Jeff you'll be greatly missed, and thank you for being such a beautiful example of Gods love.
Renee (Faraj) Kushner
November 1, 2006
I heard the news via email last Friday. I've been deeply saddened, and humbled by this tragic event. Jeff was a "what you see is what you get" kinda guy, with a sparkle in his eye and a warm smile.
The other day, I brought out a school picture of our 5th grade class at Capri Elementary.... Jeff had that same big smile on his face then too.
You will be missed Jeff... beyond words.
My deepest sympathies go out to Jeff's family and all of the people that he touched along the way.
God Bless... you'll be in my prayers.
John Torres
November 1, 2006
When I heard the news the memories of Jeff flooded my mind- All the way back to Capri Elementary to Rolling Hills then to Westmont. The world has lost a great man that has made a difference since day one. My deepest sympathies and prayers go to you and his family.
Showing 1 - 47 of 47 results
Make a Donation
in Jeff Mitchell's name
How to support Jeff's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Jeff Mitchell's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more