Joseph A. Mitchell

Joseph Mitchell Sr., a United States Air Force Veteran, Beloved Husband, Father, Grandfather, Great-Grandfather and Patriarch
Joseph Mitchell Sr., a proud veteran of the United States Air Force, passed away on May 23, 2025 leaving behind a legacy defined by strength, humility, loyalty, and love. Known for his warmth, grit, and boundless generosity, Joseph was the rock of the Mitchell family - a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend to all who knew him.
He was born to Louis and Margaret Mitchell, later joined in his high school years by his stepfather Joseph Purcell and stepmother Louise Purcell. Joseph was the oldest of five siblings: Allan, Jacqueline, Maryanne the late Carol, as well as three stepbrothers; John Purcell, and the late Paul Purcell and the late Joey Purcell.
For 65 years, he shared an extraordinary bond with his wife Lorraine, the love of his life. Together, they raised an incredible family through the old school of hard knocks, hard work, determination, and love. Their six children carry that legacy forward; Darlene Ligor, Michele Preston, Karen White and her husband Mark, Joseph Mitchell Jr. and his wife Noreen, John Mitchell and his wife Leesa and Michael Mitchell and his wife Diana.
Joseph was a proud grandfather to 12 grandchildren; Jason Ligor and his wife Courtney, Daniel Preston and his wife Katie Dewey-Rosenfeld, Danielle DiGirolamo and her husband Daniel, Nicole Ide and her husband Michael, Mishele White, Michael White, Mathew Mitchell, Amanda Mitchell, Evan Mitchell, Sophie Mitchell, Joseph Mitchell and Connor Mitchell. He was also a cherished great-grandfather to Dominic, Isabella, Lyla, Logan, Ryan, Madison, and Olivia - with another great-grandchild on the way.
A talented athlete and dedicated baseball coach, Joseph had a rare gift for connecting with young people - especially the friends of his children, many of whom looked up to him as a mentor. He coached with heart and believed in developing not just skills on the field, but character off it. Joseph was also a legendary cook, capable of preparing full holiday feasts for over 40 people without breaking a sweat. Whether it was Easter, Thanksgiving, or Christmas Eve, he filled his home with good food, warmth, and the company of those he loved most. His holidays were more than meals - they were a celebration of family, tradition, and the simple joy of being together.
He was a "guy's guy," a working man's man - tough when life demanded it, but always kind, generous, and fiercely loyal. He loved people, and they loved him right back. He lived a life built on principle and perseverance. And above all else, he loved his family. That love defined him.
Joseph Mitchell Sr. was - and always will be - the patriarch of the Mitchell family. His presence shaped generations. His legacy will survive eternity.
At the request of the family, all arrangements are private and under the care of DeVito Funeral Home of ARLINGTON. Please visit devitofuneralhomes.com to view an online guestbook. To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Joseph, please visit our Tree Store.