Luther Clayton Mitchell

Luther Clayton Mitchell was born on January 31, 1954, in Cleveland, Ohio, to Clarice Wright. He was raised in Detroit, Michigan, and he received his foundational education at Southeastern High School, graduating with the Class of 1972. Seeking to further his horizons, Luther attended Wayne State University. Even in those early years, it was clear that a deep internal compass guided him; he felt called toward a life of profound purpose and meaning, a calling that would shape the decades to follow. Luther transitioned to a new chapter of his life by moving to Indianapolis, Indiana. In 1981, while out dancing, he asked Pamela Wadsworth to dance. They eventually married and raised their three amazing children, Matthew, Katherine, and Rita. To provide for his family, Luther established himself professionally as an industrial worker, known for his dedication and work ethic. Later in life, he met his second wife, Crystal Anderson, in Indianapolis, IN. The happy couple soon wed and have spent more than 16 years together. Two peas in a pod….the two were more than just a blushing couple, but best friends. Luther’s strength was drawn from his unwavering walk with the Lord. He navigated the complexities of life and health challenges with a rare grace, firmly believing that God held the blueprint for his journey. When faced with the inevitable obstacles and vicissitudes of life, Luther did not waver. Instead, he leaned into his faith, trusting completely in the divine plan. His life served as a living example of the peace that comes from placing one's life in God’s hands. To know Luther was to know his profound love for music. He possessed a particular affinity for the soulful rhythms of Jazz and R&B, and his knowledge was legendary—he could identify a tune or an artist within the first few notes. This passion culminated in a magnificent collection of music, including over 1,000 vinyl records, and a vast library of CDs and tapes. To Luther, music was more than a hobby; it was the soundtrack to a life well-lived. However, Luther’s true work was found in his service to others. A man of immense compassion, he spent ten years as a devoted volunteer with Hope 4 2morrow. Through this community outreach organization, he became a pillar of support for the less fortunate, tirelessly distributing food and clothing to those in need. His decade of service stood as a testament to his belief in the inherent dignity of every person. In Luther’s last months, he increased his impact on the world and began donating to the ASPCA to support lifesaving animal rescue and rehabilitation efforts. Notably, Luther’s greatest legacy is not found in what he owned, but in the lives he influenced. While he was a foundational role model for his children, his impact extended deeply to his grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and many of his children’s friends as well. He was a man of principle who taught the younger generation the value of integrity, the necessity of taking responsibility for one's actions, and the importance of celebrating every victory over adversity. Luther was a man defined by his vibrant spirit and infectious positivity, which touched everyone he met. His melody lives on in the hearts of all who loved him. He leaves behind a family strengthened by his guidance and a community made better by his presence. Luther Clayton Mitchell traded time for eternity on February 2, 2026. He leaves to cherish his memory and legacy a very loving and devoted wife: Crystal Mitchell; caring son: Matthew (Jared) Clemmons-Mitchell, faithful daughters; Katherine Adamou, Rita (Aaron) Maxey, cherished grandchildren: Naomi, Aissatou, and Abdul Adamou; Loving Mother: Clarice Thomas, Dear Brother: Marcus Thomas, Beloved Sisters: Nina Wheeler, Cheryl Thomas, and a host of loving nephews, nieces, relatives, and friends.