Billy Mitchell

   William Pruden "Billy" Mitchell, 90, formerly of Gatesville, NC, and more recently of Brookdale Assisted Living of Elizabeth City, passed away on Friday, January 27, 2017.

   Mr. Mitchell was born in the Trotville community of Gates County on September 26, 1926, and was the son of the late John W.P. and Sarah Christiana Simpson Mitchell.  Retired as the Gates County Tax Supervisor after more than 30 years of service, he was a member and deacon of Gatesville Baptist Church, a member and past president of the Gatesville Ruritan Club, and had served in the Gatesville Volunteer Fire Dept. and the Gates County Rescue Squad. An Army veteran of World War II, he served in the Pacific Theater.

   In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 54 years, Frances Belanga Mitchell; his sisters, Mildred Rountree, Doris Weaver, and Pauline "Polly" Black; and by his granddaughter, Haley Mitchell.

   Surviving are his sons, Jeff Mitchell and wife Valerie of Elizabeth City, and Greg Mitchell and wife Lisa of Durham; and three grandchildren, Kelsie, Justin, and Sarah.

   Funeral services will be held Monday at 11:00 a.m. in the Gatesville Baptist Church and will be conducted by the Revs. Ray Brickhouse and Gene Asbill. Burial will follow in the Gatesville Cemetery. Friends may join the family Sunday from 6 to 7:30 p.m. in Miller Funeral Home, 304 Main Street, Gatesville, or in the social hall of the church immediately following services on Monday.

   Memorial contributions may be made to Gatesville Baptist Church, P.O. Box 167, Gatesville, NC 27938.

   Jeff and Greg wish to express their deep appreciation to the staff and caregivers of Brookdale Assisted Living for the care and attention given to their father over these past years of declining health.