Willie Lee Mitchell's Obituary
Willie “Doc” Lee Mitchell, Sr., was the son of the late Will and Bessie May Mitchell. Born May 28, 1923 in Sylacauga, Alabama and was raised in Flat Creek, Alabama. On Tuesday, November 1, 2016, God called His servant home. Willie spent his early childhood and youth in surrounding cities of Birmingham, AL. He attended Praco High School but received his diploma from Abraham Lincoln Senior High School, San Diego, CA and his degree from San Diego Community College with honors. Willie joined the United States Navy in 1941 and advanced through the ranks at rapid speed even during a time when people of color were hindered through promotions and could only hold certain military positions. He retired in 1968 with honors as a Stewart Master Chief Petty Officer, highest ranking enlisted officer. On October 12, 1944 he married his high school sweetheart, “Maggie Nell Skipwith” whom preceded him in death. Their union blessed them with one daughter, three sons, 15 grandchildren, 31 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandchildren. In 1948, Willie joined Logan Temple A.M.E. Zion Church along with his wife. Eventually Willie became a local preacher and a devote member of St. James A.M.E. Zion Church under the leadership of the late Rev. Dr. Eugene Harvey. He was also a member of the Lay Council San Diego District. Willie was the Executive Food Service Manager for Muriel College and Warren College, University of California, San Diego and retired in 1983. He was the overseer for everyday food service operations and for special events at each college. The students knew him as the manager with the heart of gold. Students near and far would come back after graduating to thank him for his encouragement and dedication to them as students. In his spare time he enjoyed working with the American Little League as a coach and advanced to Little League President. He was an inspiration to the children that lived in the community of Memorial Park. It was through his dedication and determination that he was able to get support from churches in the community as well as outside support to provide uniforms with baseball jackets for the players. He often times would take money out of his own pocket to support less fortunate children. Willie was a member of Gibraltar Lodge #58 and a Past Master of Gibraltar Lodge #58 S & AM, Prince Hall Affiliation. Willie was three times Worthy Patron of Ione Chapter 58. He became a lifetime member on January 1, 2005 and was a member until his death. To mourn his departure but rejoice in his life are: one daughter, Bettye D. Mitchell-Holcomb (Richard) of Henderson, NV and three son’s, Willie L. Mitchell, III (Barbara) of Hemet, CA; Donald R. Mitchell, Sr. (Valerie) of Temecula, CA; and Brian K. Mitchell, Sr. (Elaine) of San Diego, CA. One Godson, Jonathan Johnson, San Diego, CA. Fifteen Grandchildren: Marcya C. Hiett (Terry), Frank E. Jackson, III, Donald R. Mitchell, Jr. (Nsombi), Dennis J. Mitchell, Sr. (Milliama), Derrick R. Mitchell (Erica), Myesha N. Baham (Keith), Brikia K. Cephas (Shaunte), Darrin R. Mitchell (Jemmalyn), Deone J. Mitchell (Alicia), Brian K. Mitchell, Jr., Kellee M. Wallace, Alexis Rhoden (George), Eric P. Wallace, Shyianne L. Mitchell, and Mikeal K. Mitchell. Many Great-Grandchildren; Great Great Grandchildren and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and supportive friends.
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