James Henry Mitchell

James Henry Mitchell of Soddy-Daisy, TN passed away peacefully on December 30, 2025. James was born on September 30, 1948, in South Pittsburg, TN. He attended McReynolds High School up until his last year, graduating from South Pittsburg High School in 1966.

James was a construction worker prior to becoming part of the Army 101st Airborne as a Private E-1Rank Combat Engineer, then promoted to E-4. He served in the Vietnam War from January 1968 until December 1969. He received an honorable discharge and had a decorated military service record earning the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam service Medal with two Bronze Service Stars, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Bronze Star Medal, Army Commendation Medal and Expert Rifle shot.

After his military service ended, James became employed at TVA Nuclear Plant for sixteen years as an Iron Worker and retired from Norton after eighteen years as a Steel Worker. As a pilar of the community, he always took time out to help the elderly in need and loved spending time with his family. He had a kind spirit and charisma that would light up the room and have everyone laughing and enjoying being in his presence.

James acquired a few nicknames that many knew him by, Buster, B.C., Castro, & Chin Chopper; each name holding significant moments in his life that became a part of his warm personality.

On June 14, 2024, he married his long time life partner of 21 years, Barbara Penn.

James is preceded in death by his parents, Annie Mitchell Crosby and Robert Hill; Sister(s) Annetta Curington, Bessie Hale and Brother, Ronald Mitchell.

James is survived by his wife Barbara Mitchell; daughter Melanie Shontel Mitchell Dallas, TX, son James Myron Mitchell Chattanooga, TN; daughter(s) Renata Carter Tennille, GA, Kerrie Penn Soddy-Daisy, TN, Rebecca Thomas (Tywon Thomas) Monroe, GA; sister(s) Sarah Gaines South Pittsburg, TN, Tyra Jackson Jasper, TN, Sandra Mitchell South Pittsburg, TN and Madeline Ware Jasper, TN; brother(s) Jerry Ware Jasper, TN and Terry Ware Chattanooga, TN; 14 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind a special friend, Stacy Swafford Soddy-Daisy, TN.

James's life stories, memories and moments shared with loved ones will continue to live on forever.

James will be honored with military services on Monday, January 12th. 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Chattanooga National Cemetery.

Condolences and memories can be shared at www.williamsonandsons.com.

Arrangements are by Williamson and Sons Funeral Home, 8852 Dayton Pike, Soddy Daisy, TN 37379.