John Henry Mitchell

Life Reflection

John Henry Mitchell was born in St. Louis, Missouri on February 21, 1943 to the union of Martin and Frankie Mitchell, who preceded him in death. He was the youngest boy of eleven siblings, four of his siblings preceded him in death (Frances, Pauline, Martin Jr. and Joseph).

John graduated from Webster Groves High School in Webster Groves, Missouri which was made possible alter the school integrated in 1958. After graduation John Followed his older brother Martin Jr. and moved to California where he worked briefly for Lockheed Martin. Shortly after his move he enlisted in the United States Army where he served as a Drill Sergeant and a Tankman. John honorably served our country for over twenty years in the United States Army as an active-duty serviceman and reservist.

Upon his active-duty discharge Jahn returned to St. Louis where he married Ella Louise Jones, and two beautiful daughters were born to this union, Becky and Brigette. he was a family man who loved to spend time outdoors, biking, boating, gardening, walking the creek, kayaking on area lakes and rivers, yes kayaking on the river... something he loved and continued to do up until the summer of 2022.

John had a long and illustrious career with McDonnell Douglas (now Boeing). After working there for over thirty years as a technical writer and draftsman he retired to pursue his passions.

John single handedly transformed his beloved home in Webster Groves by spending countless hours in his yard planting, growing, cultivating and manicuring his yard. Creating a tranquil award-winning landscape that has been admired by many over the years and will be an enduring gift to others for years to come.

John was a man who gave much to many, but he was a "loner". While he enjoyed spending quality time with his family and friends, he loved to be alone, he loved his quiet time communing with the Lord enjoying the beauty of nature and the great outdoors. John accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior at an early age and that belief was his foundation that he often shared with others. That is why with confidence we know that he is resting peacefully in the loving arms of our Heavenly Father.

He leaves to cherish his memories: his two daughters, Becky Mitchell of Kansas City, MO and Brigette Mitchell of Phoenix, AZ; three grandchildren, Quintin M. Terrell, Jeffrey C. Terrell and Raja E. Mitchell; four great-grandchildren, Qiyenne M. Terrell, Oliver T. Wells, Finnegan J. Wells and Franklen E. Wells; six siblings, Geraldine Williams, William Mitchell, Mary Louise Ezell, Edna Jean Cannon (James), Joyce Bryant (Ray) and Jacqueline Cooper; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.