James Cordell Mitchell

Today, we’re gathered to celebrate the homegoing of Deacon James Cordell Mitchell. James Mitchell was born August 29, 1947, the second of four children to the late Cordell Mitchell and Beulah Johnson Mitchell. His sisters, Shirley Mitchell and Brenda (Cookie) Mitchell Hunt preceded him in death. James was educated in the Davidson County Public School System, graduating from Pearl High School in 1965. James enlisted in the United States Army in June of 1965 and served until he retired in March of 1985. He met and married Marigene Thompson, March 27, 1971. James and Marigene have one son, Joseph Mitchell.

Upon his retirement from traveling with the military, James returned to Nashville and united with Bethlehem United Primitive Baptist Church under the leadership of the late, Elder N. A. Mumphrey, Jr. He served in varying capacities in the Church as Youth Sunday School teacher, Sunday School Superintendent, Assistant Treasurer, Brotherhood President and Chairman of the Deacon Board. He also served as the Clerk for Big Harpeth United Primitive Baptist Association for 15+ years.

James worked for the United States Postal Service for 23 years. His hobbies included studying the Bible and watching football games.

Deacon Mitchell is survived by his wife of 48 years, Marigene Mitchell; devoted son, Joseph L. Mitchell; devoted granddaughter, Eva Symone; devoted sister, Doris J Mitchell; a host of brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, great nephews, nieces, great nieces and cousins; devoted friend, Victor Binford; Bethlehem and Big Harpeth families.

I’m Free
Don’t grieve for me, for now I’m free. I’m following the path God laid for me. I took his hand when I heard him call. I turned my back and left it all. I could not stay another day to laugh, to love, to work or play. Tasks left undone must stay that way. I found that place at the close of day.
If my parting has left a void, then fill it with remembered joy. A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss, ah yes, these things I too will miss. Be not burdened with times of sorrow. I wish you the sunshine of tomorrow. My life’s been full, I savored much: good friends, good times, and a loved one’s touch. Perhaps my time seemed all too brief, don’t lengthen it now with undue grief. Lift up your hearts and share with me. God wanted me now. He set me free!!