William Mitchell

William Mitchell was called home to be with the Lord on May 30th, 2026. He was surrounded by the love of family and the promises of God, entering into his eternal reward at the age of 87.

William was born on July 9, 1938, in Center Ridge, Arkansas to the late Amon O. and Jean Lee Mitchell. He was a man of unwavering faith, strong convictions, and steadfast character. He graduated from High School in Buchanan, Michigan in 1956, and soon after he answered the call to serve his country in the United States Army, serving as a Military Policeman from 1956 to 1959.

On April 4, 1964, he married the love of his life, Dorothea (Ruff) Mitchell, beginning a partnership that would span decades of faith, family, and ministry.

In 1965, he answered a higher calling to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Over the next 60 years as a licensed minister, and approximately 44 years as a pastor, he faithfully served congregations, preached God's Word, counseled families, and pointed countless souls toward Christ. Though he retired from pastoring in 2009, his ministry and influence continued to touch lives wherever he went.

He was a man who lived by the words of Matthew 24:13: "But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved." His life was a testimony of endurance, commitment, faithfulness, and devotion to God.

Alongside his Ministry, he found joy in the simple things of life. He loved fishing, tending flowers, caring for his lawn, and watching birds. He took pride in creating beauty wherever he lived and sharing that joy with others. One of his greatest passions was being an avid reader of all things Gospel and History.

Of all his accomplishments, however, his greatest achievement was his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend. His children were his pride and joy, and he invested his life in teaching them values, commitment, hard work, and faith in God.

He wore many titles throughout his life which included Son, Brother, Husband, Father, Pastor, Preacher, Veteran, and Friend. Each was important, but those who knew him best will remember his dry humor, his love for people, and his ability to leave a lasting impression on every life he touched.

Even in his final years, he never lost his sense of humor. Those who knew him can almost hear him smiling and saying, "Some of you people still owe me tithes!"

Though he has left this earthly life, his influence remains in the lives he touched, the family he loved, the churches he pastored, and the Gospel he faithfully preached.

As we mourn his passing, we rejoice in the hope of the resurrection and the promise that this is not goodbye. As the song says, "Look for me, for I will be there too."

He was loved deeply, will be remembered always, and will be missed beyond words.

Left to cherish his memory are his children; one son, Scott Mitchell (Monica) of Tennessee, one daughter, Tamara Jackson-Mitchell (TJ) of Arkansas, five grandchildren; Dustin Gillham (Corrie), Ashley Layrock (Lucas), Devin Mitchell, Bryant Dugger, Amber Feagin (Jordon); twelve great grandchildren; three sisters; Juanita Mattocks, Brenda Collias, Melissa Davis (Steven), and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

In addition to his parents, William is preceded in death by his devoted wife, Dorothea (Ruff) Mitchell, and one sister, Linda Swap.

A visitation will be held at The Apostolic Church in Judsonia, Arkansas on Friday, June 5, 2026 from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. followed by a funeral service at 11:00 a.m. Arrangements by Searcy McEuen Funeral Home, www.searcymceuenfunealhome.com.