Pastor John L. Mitchell, 77, of Burlington, died Wednesday, Dec. 25, 2024 at his home.
Born July 5, 1947, in Memphis, Tenn., he was the son of Charles and Willie Mae Belcher Mitchell. On Sept. 2, 1977, he married Mary Louise Cooper in Carthage, Ill.
He graduated from Burlington Community High School in 1965. John was a U.S. Marine Corps Veteran. He was the pastor at New Hope Christian Church and had retired from the Burlington School District after 28 years of custodial work.
John enjoyed watching professional basketball, going to flea markets and antiquing. His favorite things to collect were sports cards, tools and coins. He loved serving the Lord and his community through New Hope Christian Church.
Survivors include his wife of 47 years, Mary Louise Mitchell of Burlington; son, Sebastian Juan (Vicki) Mitchell of Batavia, Ill.; daughter, Tawanda Berry of Phoenix, Ariz.; numerous grandchildren; brother, Charles (Talethia) Mitchell of Burlington; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, sisters, Barbara White and Ruby Brown and daughter, Renee Woodson.
The family will receive friends from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 3, 2025, at Prugh Funeral Service, 3940 Division Street. Full military honors will be rendered by the Hamilton-Walters Marine Corps League, Detachment 616. A private family funeral service will be held. Interment will be at Keokuk National Cemetery.
A memorial has been established for New Hope Christian Church.