Grace L. Patton Mitchell, passed away peacefully on September 6, 2025, at Haywood Regional Medical Center in Haywood, North Carolina. Born on May 6, 1935, in Haywood County, North Carolina, Grace was the daughter of Dwain Patton and Christal Hendrix Patton. She was a cherished wife to her late husband, James David Mitchell, with whom she shared over 60 wonderful years of marriage before his passing in 2012.
Grace dedicated much of her life to service within her community, primarily as a cashier across various retail establishments. Her most valued position was with Walmart in Waynesville, NC, where she worked for many years and formed lasting connections with customers and colleagues alike.
In addition to her career, Grace was passionate about a variety of hobbies. She found immense joy in traveling, often reminiscing about trips to Dollywood and cruising along the Parkway. Gambling at Harrahs Casino brought her excitement, and she was known for her culinary talents, particularly her special scratch-made yeast rolls. Grace treasured the peaceful moments spent sitting by the creek on her front porch, as well as the time shared with her grandchildren, which was undoubtedly the highlight of her life.
Grace leaves behind a loving family, including her two sons: John Mitchell (Gloria) from Houston, Texas, and Gary Mitchell (Janie) from Las Vegas, Nevada and Daughter Jackie Goforth (Steve) of Waynesville, NC. Her legacy continues with five grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. Additionally, she is survived by a special nephew, Dwain Scruggs.
The family wishes to extend special thanks to her caregivers, Judy, Terrisa, and Mary Jo, for their unconditional support and care throughout her later years.
The family of Grace L. Patton Mitchell has entrusted Wells Funeral Home of Waynesville, NC.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
296 North Main Street, Waynesville, NC 28786
Memories and condolences can be left on the obituary at the funeral home website.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read moreWhat kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read moreWe'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read moreLegacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreThey're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreYou may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read moreThese free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read moreSome basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more