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BORN
1930
DIED
2025
Willis Mitchell Obituary
June 27, 1930 - March 17, 2025
Reedley, California - Willis "Ray" Mitchell, 94, passed away on March 17, 2025, in Reedley, California.
Born on June 27, 1930, in Hurley, Missouri, Ray was the third child of Kenneth and Lucy Mitchell. In 1936, his family moved to California, settling in the Reedley area, where he attended grammar school. In 1947, they relocated to Selma, where he graduated from Selma High School in 1949. He continued his education at Reedley College before earning a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration from Fresno State.
From 1950 to 1954 Ray served in the U.S. Navy. Following his military service, he built a career as an accountant, working for Turkey Growers of Selma, Sheldon P. Lewis CPA Firm in Fresno, and Dale Bros Coffee in Fresno. He later retired as Comptroller from Beechcraft Aircraft in Fresno.
Ray enjoyed the outdoors, either gardening or traveling, hunting, fishing, and backpacking.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 69 years, Ellen; his parents; four brothers Wilbur, Bernie, Donald, and Olen; and his sister, Freida Benefield. He is survived by his three sons David, Scott, and Steven along with four grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sisters-in-law, June and Donna Mitchell.
Ray spent his final days at Sierra View Homes Skilled Nursing in Reedley under the compassionate care of Bristol Hospice in Fresno. Per his wishes, no services are planned.
May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
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