Bernard James "Jim" Mitchell II

Bernard "Jim" James Mitchell II, 74, of Marion, passed away on February 21, 2026, at his home. Services will be set for a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Northwest Missouri State Alumni Association or to the University of Northern Iowa Alumni Association.

On July 11, 1951, Bernard and Liela Mitchell welcomed Bernard "James" Mitchell II to the world. He grew up in Bedford, Iowa with four siblings, whom he stayed close with all his years. He graduated from Bedford High School in 1969 and remained close with his classmates throughout his life. His classmates and friends felt that Jim had a beautiful soul, was kind and caring and was always lots of fun. He kept in touch with his classmates and attended reunions on a regular basis.

Jim's passion worked well in hand with the profession he chose to pursue for many years, which was education. After receiving his Bachelor of Science in English and Spanish and his Masters in Psychology and Special Education, he went on to be an educator and school psychologist for the Iowa Educational System. Jim was so intelligent and loved getting to help educate and support others through the years and sharing his knowledge on many different levels.

There were many things Jim loved to do through the years. One of his many favorite stories to tell was about his travels around Europe. There wasn't a restaurant that he wasn't willing to try and was considered a 'foodie' to most. Jim was a regular at most places in the Cedar Rapids area and never knew a stranger.

An old soul, Jim was a connoisseur of old rock, classical, and jazz music and loved any chance he could get to open up a new book. Anyone that talked with Jim knows how amazing of a man he was. He always approached people with the kindest words, loving thoughts and generous attitude. Those that knew him on a deeper level knew how funny and sarcastic he could be while still holding the title as a wonderful man.

Jim owned his clothing style. He could always be caught wearing something very eclectic and unique, always making a statement.

Other than his style, he always made sure to let his family know how much he loved and cherished them. Having a big family was something Jim was proud to be a part of.

He is preceded by his parents, Bernard and Liela (Stout) Mitchell, and a niece, Shanda Suzanne Brill.

Jim will be deeply missed by his siblings: Kathy Brill, Brent (Janet) Mitchell, Jill Cook and Melinda (Kevin) Gearhart; special friends that were like siblings, Lisa Nyx and Steven Cottrell; aunts and uncles: Mary Stierwalt, Delores Mitchell, Kay Lande, Janet (Greg) Lemmer, Frank Mitchell and Richard (Mary Lou) Mitchell; nine nieces and nephews: Andrea (Tom) Welchans, Brooke (Brett) Fischels, Katie (Paul) Loerts, Kari (Lee) Howard, Keely (Jesse) Smith, Megan Gearhart, Josh (Abby) Cook, Jordan (Kelli) Cook and Cameron Gearhart; 13 great nieces and nephews: Clint, Tanner, Henry, Leo, Amelia, Cordelia, Pete, Kylie, Emmy, Tyler, Kohlby, Nina and Alec; along with a many other extended friends and family.