Phillip Eugene Mitchell lll

God. Family. Country.

These three words were not just values for Phillip E. Mitchell III - they were the backbone of his life. He lived them fiercely, proudly, and without apology. And on December 7, 2025, at just 15 years old, Phillip stepped into the presence of his Savior, Jesus Christ, surrounded by the love that shaped every part of his story.

Phillip was the cherished son of Phillip E. Mitchell Jr. ("Big Phillip") and Heather Mitchell, and the shining joy of their lives. From the moment he was born, he brought light, laughter, purpose, and pride to his parents. He loved them both with a devotion far beyond his years, and they loved him with a depth words can hardly capture.

As Phillip grew, one of the most defining parts of his life was his extraordinary bond with his father. While many fathers and sons share closeness, Phillip and his dad shared something deeper - a rare companionship that stretched far beyond the ordinary. They were inseparable partners and true best friends, sharing not only a name but mannerisms, humor, and a way of seeing the world that made them unmistakably alike. From the time Little Phillip was just a few weeks old, Big Phillip took him everywhere he went - even for oil changes - and their connection became a daily rhythm. They understood each other, relied on each other, and found joy in simply being side by side.

Phillip's life was defined by conviction, loyalty, and love. He adored his family and was a proud older brother to Joshua and Ronan, and the beloved brother to Hannah, Christian, and Hope. Being an uncle was one of his greatest joys. He adored his nieces Hazel and Sol, and his baby nephew Lucas. His tenderness toward them - the way he lit up around them and took his role seriously - revealed a heart full of love.

Phillip cherished his friends, especially his closest friend Dalston, who truly felt like a brother. Their bond was one-of-a-kind - full of laughter, loyalty, inside jokes, and countless adventures. His cousins were also very dear friends, and the time he spent with them - working, playing, joking, and simply being together - was a treasured part of his life.

Most importantly, Phillip had a genuine, personal relationship with Jesus Christ. His faith wasn't loud or dramatic - it was steady, sincere, and lived out daily. He prayed, he sought God, and he carried a quiet confidence in his Savior. He attended Southeast Christian Church and lived a faith woven into the fabric of who he was.

From a young age, Phillip gravitated toward his dad's world of lawn care and landscaping. He spent countless days by his father's side - not because he had to, but because he wanted to be with him. Phillip was known for his impressive physical strength. He could sling heavy equipment onto his back, clear brush, and take on tough work - but it was his inner strength, perseverance, and determination that set him apart most.

Phillip lived out the truth of Philippians 4:13: "I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength." He believed this deeply. The strength Christ gave him - especially in his final battle against Ewing Sarcoma, a rare and aggressive pediatric bone cancer - was beyond anything most people ever witness. His courage, endurance, and unshakable resolve revealed a faith deeper than words could express.

Despite his strength, Phillip had a soft and compassionate heart. He cared deeply for the overlooked and the elderly - like the woman whose lawn he helped tend, always checking on her, sharing a smile, and brightening her day with dimples that lit up every room.

He had a sharp wit and a sense of humor that kept people laughing even during hard moments. Phillip was unforgettable - funny, caring, observant, loyal, and full of personality.

He embraced his signature style - anything camo, cowboy hats, pearl snap shirts, big belt buckles, and his well-worn cowboy boots. And of course, diesel trucks - the louder, the better. Everything about him was authentic, bold, grounded, and filled with the unmistakable character that made Phillip completely, wonderfully himself.

The true essence of Phillip's life was simple but profound: He loved Jesus. He loved his family. He loved his country. And he lived every day with heart, strength, character, and love.

Phillip leaves behind countless family members and friends who loved him deeply. He is survived by his loving parents, Phillip E. Mitchell Jr. and Heather Gray Mitchell; his siblings, Hannah Canning (and her husband Steve Canning), Christian Wheeler, Hope Wheeler, Joshua Mitchell, and Ronan Mitchell; and his cherished nieces and nephew: Hazel Canning, Sol Wheeler, and Lucas Canning.

He is also survived by his maternal grandfather, Larry Gray, and his paternal grandmother, Janice (DeeDee) Mitchell. He was preceded in death by his maternal grandmother, Debbie Gray, and his paternal grandfather, Phillip E. Mitchell Sr.

Phillip is further survived by numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends who loved him deeply.

His impact - through his courage, humor, kindness, and sincere faith - will forever live on in every life he touched.

Family and friends are invited to honor Phillip's life at Stoess Funeral Home in Crestwood, Kentucky.

Thursday, December 11
• Visitation: 3:00–7:00 PM

Friday, December 12
• Visitation: 12:00–1:00 PM
• Funeral Service: 1:00 PM
Procession to Floydsburg Cemetery will follow.

For those wishing to send flowers, arrangements may be made through Minish & Potts Florists at (502) 241-8422.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Phillip's memory may be made to the
Sarcoma Foundation of America, supporting research and awareness for those who face this devastating disease.

Online donations may be made at: www.curesarcoma.org

Honoree Name: Phillip E. Mitchell, III