Obituary

William Larry Mitchell, age 76, passed away peacefully at The Elizabeth House in Flat Rock, North Carolina, following a period of declining health. He was born on December 11, 1949, in Campbell, Tennessee, to the late Mack Ray and Mary Ruth Mitchell.

William was a proud Tennessean who always considered Tennessee home. After graduating from high school, he enlisted in the United States Army and proudly served his country in Vietnam and later in Germany as a member of the 82nd Airborne Division. His military service was a source of great pride throughout his life, and he carried with him the strength, discipline, and sense of duty that came from his years in the Army.

William was a naturally curious man who enjoyed learning throughout his life. Over the years, he learned five languages, including German, reflecting his interest in different cultures and his experiences during his military service.

Although William was born and raised in Tennessee and always considered it home, after completing his military service he wanted to be closer to his mother, who was living in Western North Carolina at the time. He made North Carolina his home and began a long career dedicated to protecting and serving others.

William became a deputy with the Buncombe County Sheriff’s Department and later served as a correctional officer at the former Craggy Federal Prison in Woodfin. Later in his career, he became Chief Security Officer at The Cliffs at Walnut Cove in Arden. He was respected and appreciated by the many people he worked with there, and he became someone they knew they could count on.

William was also a Mason and Shriner in Hendersonville. He took pride in being part of these organizations and valued the fellowship and friendships they brought into his life.

A true marksman, William was an accomplished shooter and was proud to have been a member of the Governor’s Shooting Team. He enjoyed hunting and fishing and loved spending time outdoors. Even after a stroke affected his eyesight, fishing remained a special joy. His son, Mack, would take him fishing, giving them precious time together that William dearly cherished.

While William accomplished many things throughout his life, his family was what mattered most. Spending time with his children and grandchildren brought him some of his greatest happiness. He was proud of his family and treasured the memories made together.

William shared more than 40 years of his life with his beloved wife, Linda. Their marriage was a lasting partnership filled with countless memories, challenges, laughter, and the simple moments of everyday life. Linda was the love of his life, and even after her passing in 2022, William continued to carry her memory with him.

In addition to his beloved wife, Linda, William was preceded in death by his parents; his grandmother, “Momma Ruth” Norman; his brothers, Benjamin Ronald Chitwood and Michael Mitchell; and his biological father, B.W. Chitwood.

He leaves behind his daughter, Melissa Ann Mondragon and her husband, Shane, of Powell, Tennessee; his sons, Mack Ray Mitchell and his life partner, Shannon, of Hendersonville, and Joseph Reed Mitchell of Henderson County; nine grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind extended family, friends, and many people whose lives he touched through his work and friendships.

William will be remembered as a proud soldier, a dedicated public servant, a skilled marksman, an outdoorsman, and a man who never stopped learning. But those who knew him best will remember him simply as a husband, father, grandfather, and friend who found his greatest happiness in the people closest to him.

There will be a visitation on Tuesday, October 6 from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. at The Kirby Chapel at Shuler Funeral Home, with a Celebration of Life service following at the same location. Interment will follow at Mountain View Memorial Park, Black Mountain. The service will be livestreamed for anyone who is unable to attend. The link is below. Shuler Funeral home is honored to be serving the Mitchell family during this time.

Memorial donations may be made to assist the family with the unexpected expenses that have arisen following William’s passing. Donations may be made by clicking here, or visiting Shuler Funeral Home. The family is deeply grateful for the kindness, prayers, and support extended to them during this difficult time.