Gary Duane Mitchell, age 83 of Sparta,  passed away on Thursday evening October 12, 2023 at his residence. He was born December 2, 1939 in Sparta, Tenn. to the late Herbert W. and Will Alma Broyles Mitchell.  He was also preceded in death by his grandparents:  Isaac and Mattie England Mitchell, and William Mansfield and Perilla Shockley Broyles, and a sister:  Carolyn Mitchell Hickey.

Gary graduated White County High School in 1959.  He was a avid basketball player, playing from 7th grade until graduation, & lettering all four years of high school. He loved his Tennessee Vols Football & enjoyed attending games until his health prevented him. He loved to relive the games he attended with his friends during the 50's and 60's & could give exact scores and scoring players right up until his death. He was a insurance salesman starting with Kentucky Central Life and ending with Life of Georgia. He was a deacon & later an elder at his beloved First Christian Church where he attended all his life.  His love for his family was preceded only by his love for his Lord & Savior.

He was surrounded by his loving family members who will fondly cherish each memory.

Wife of 69 years whom he married November 23, 1963 Betty Davis Mitchell

Daughter: Becky (Hank) Golden

Son:  Samuel West (Tasha) Mitchell

Granddaughters:  Kim (James) Knapp, Leslie (Sean) Melton, Ava Mitchell, Mallory Mitchell, Addison Mitchell & Skylar Green

Grandsons: T.C. (Lyndee) Good & Tyler Good

Great-Granddaughters:  Kady Brymer, Becklee Melton, Tynslee Good & Paislee Good

Great-Grandsons:  Jordan Brymer, Kolton Denton, and Lyle Melton

Along with numerous Nieces, Nephews, Cousins and Friends

Hunter Funeral Home has been entrusted with Mr. Mitchell's cremation and a memorial service will be conducted 1:00pm Saturday, October 21, 2023 at First Christian Church with burial of ashes to follow in Highland Cemetery. The family will receive friends after 11:00am Saturday at the church. Trevor Trahan and Rick Conley will officiate.

Roger Howell, David Howell, Raymond Wilhite, Chet Gentry, Grandsons and Great-Grandsons will serve as Honorary Pallbearers