Harold Dean Mitchell

Harold Dean Mitchell, beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 8, 2025, at the age of 85. Known affectionately as Harold, Dean, Daddy, Granddaddy, Epaw, Da, and Hawk, he spent his life serving others with a kind heart and strong hands.

Harold lived by the principles of service, honor, and love. He became an Eagle Scout as a teen. A proud retired Master Sergeant with the Air National Guard, he served his country faithfully for 20 years. He was also a 3rd Degree Scottish Rite Mason. His commitment to the brotherhood’s principles of charity, integrity, and service was evident throughout his life. In December 2000, he was inducted into the Memphis Park Commission Sports Hall of Fame. With an overall career record of 540 wins and 150 losses, he was truly outstanding on the mound. Harold was a master brick mason by trade. Some of his most notable work: the Memphis Red Birds stadium and The Peabody Place. He took great pride in his craft, leaving behind not just buildings of stone and mortar, but a legacy of hard work, resilience, and dedication.

Harold was first married to Kathleen Perrette Mitchell, with whom he had two daughters. After her passing, he later married the love of his life, Betty Ward Mitchell, and welcomed two more daughters. Together they raised their girls with a bond built by love.

He was preceded in death by both wives, Kathleen Perrette Mitchell, Betty Ward Mitchell, and one beloved daughter, Jackie Mitchell Chipman. He is survived by his daughters, Kathy Mitchell Petty (Steve), Lori Mitchell Caves (David), and Carrie Mitchell Cook (Alan); seven grandchildren who adored him, thirteen great-grandchildren who brought him endless joy, and two more on the way!

Harold’s greatest joys were found in simple blessings: tending to his garden, cheering on “his” girls’ softball teams in Southaven, and celebrating Christmas with unmatched spirit. Though Harold became a Christian early in life, it was about 15 years ago that he rededicated his heart to Christ. He wasn’t outspoken in his faith, but he lived it quietly and consistently, following the teachings of Jesus with humility, kindness, and charity. As an extension of his faith, he served as a deacon at Carriage Hills Baptist Church for several years.  His church family held a special place in his heart, and his renewed walk with God brought him great peace in his later years. 

A celebration of Harold’s life will be held at Carriage Hills Baptist Church on Wednesday, May 14, 2025 with visitation from 10:00 am until the time of the service at 12:00 pm. Burial will be private. Those in attendance are invited to the luncheon after the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Carriage Hills Baptist Church (Children's Preschool) or the Baptist Reynolds Hospice Home in Collierville, TN.

Though his hands have rested, and his work is done, the foundation Harold laid in the hearts of all who knew him will remain – strong, steady, and full of love.