It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of William P. Mitchell, Jr., affectionately known to many as “Mitch”. Mitch’s journey through life came to a peaceful close on April 13, 2024, in Lawrence Township, NJ, at the age of 81. Born into the loving arms of William and Gladys Mitchell on a beautiful day in March 1943, Mitch's vibrant spirit and warm heart touched countless lives throughout his years.
Mitch was educated in the Kearny school system and was involved in high school sports to include cross country and indoor and outdoor track and field for which he received several scholarships. He attended Maryland State College (University of Maryland Eastern Shore) where he ran track & field and received his bachelor’s degree in business administration.
Mitch married his childhood sweetheart, Gail, 2 weeks before deploying for service in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. They remained tethered for the rest of his life. After returning from his service, Mitch continued to exemplify the values of duty and dedication, which profoundly shaped his contributions to his family and community.
Mitch was quite involved in community affairs while living in West Windsor, NJ. He coached baseball, softball, basketball, and track and field. He was the president of the PBA Basketball League for four years and started the Girls PBA Basketball League. He also chaired the West Windsor Parking Authority for eight years.
Mitch enjoyed different genres of music, especially Jazz and R & B. He was an avid tennis, golf, and pickleball player. With Photos by Mitch, he even had a side venture leveraging his passion for photography and helping others sustain their cherished memories.
Mitch leaves behind a legacy of love and perseverance, survived by his wife Gail, daughters Sharon and Janel (Donovan), son Jamal (Kenyatta), sister Vernice and her sons Wesley and Derek, 13 grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren, and a host of other family and friends who will carry forward his memory with pride and affection.
Mitch's life was a melody composed of love, service, and the joy of connection. As we bid farewell to a man of integrity, warmth, and boundless energy, let us celebrate Mitch’s remarkable journey and cherish the memories we were fortunate enough to share with him. He may have departed from this world, but his spirit and the lessons he imparted will continue to inspire those who knew him, forever echoing in the lives he touched.
Funeral service will be 11am Friday, April 26, 2024 at Shiloh Baptist Church, 340 Rev. S. Howard Woodson Jr Way, Trenton, NJ 08618. Calling hour will be 10am until time of service. Interment will be at Brigadier General William C. Doyle Memorial Cemetery, Arneytown, NJ.
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