John Everette Mitchell

John Everette Mitchell, 83, went home to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on July 19, 2025 surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Rockingham County, VA in March of 1942 to the late Perry Mitchell and Virgie Mae Mitchell.

As a lifetime member of First Wesleyan Church in Burlington, NC, John served in many capacities, including Sunday school superintendent and church board member under numerous pastors. He also served as church trustee, Sunday school teacher, a choir member, and a church greeter for many years welcoming attendees to the church. He often purchased fruit and treats to distribute to the entire church at Christmastime, which he enjoyed doing. John always made everyone feel welcome when attending the church and everyone was a friend to him. He never met a stranger.

Upon graduation from Walter Williams High School in Burlington, John enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. His basic training was at Lackland Air Force base in Texas and his four years were completed at Rhein-Mein Air Force base in Germany at the rank of Airman First Class.

Upon completion of his military service, John worked in the sales industry, working for 25 plus years for Rust-o-leum Paint Company out of Vernon Hills, Illinois, and 25 plus years at S&D Coffee, Inc. in Concord, NC as a route sales representative. He was nominated many times as outstanding salesman for his excellent sales with both companies.

After retiring, he worked part time for Napa Auto Parts. His outstanding personality and sales ability made him an asset to all the companies he worked for.

John is survived by his wife of 55 years, Cathy Nicks Mitchell of the home; son, Larry Mitchell; and grandchildren, Jordan Mitchell, Emma Mitchell, Jacob Mitchell, and Grace Mitchell, all of Georgia. Also surviving are his daughter, Chrissy Cobb and husband Kevin of Burlington; brother, Leon Mitchell and wife Beverly; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and special friends.  In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by four sisters, Lillian Lohr, Roxie Strawderman Nesselrodt, Ina Johnson, and Bernice Estep Hottinger; and five brothers, Owen Mitchell, Robert "Buck" Mitchell, Otis "Jack" Mitchell, Theodore Mitchell, and Clyde Mitchell.

A service to celebrate John’s life will be held at 11 AM on Thursday, July 24, 2025 at First Wesleyan Church, 304 South Anthony Street, Burlington, NC 27215 with Pastor Dennis Boone officiating and military honors rendered. The family will receive friends from 10 – 10:45 AM prior to the service, and at other times at John and Cathy’s home. A private family burial will be held at Alamance Memorial Park.

The family would like to thank the physicians and staff at Alamance Regional Medical Center, UNC Chapel Hill Hospital, Dr. Mark Miller, and Dr. Neil Shah, as well as AuthoraCare Hospice for their care during John’s declining health.

Memorial donations in John’s honor may be made to First Wesleyan Church, 304 South Anthony Street, Burlington, NC 27215.