James Lee Mitchell was born on January 14, 1926 in Morristown, Tennessee the son of Grace and George Mitchell. He was a life-long resident of East Tennessee moving to Kingsport with his family as a young boy. After completing school he was employed by the W. B. Greene General Hardware Company prior to his induction into the Army in 1944. Mr. Mitchell served as a cannoneer in the Pacific Theater with the 786th Field Artillery Battalion. He earned the World War 2 Victory Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal, American Theater Ribbon, AP Theater Ribbon, and Philippine Liberation Ribbon.
After receiving an Honorable Discharge in April of 1946 Mr. Mitchell returned home, took one day off, and returned to his old job with W. B. Greene Hardware. He would soon meet and fall in love with Mary Ruth Barnes and they were happily married for many years until her death in November of 2012.
Mr. Mitchell spent most of his professional life in the dry cleaning business. He founded Acme Cleaners on North Roan Street in Johnson City which was a landmark business for many years. He had been a member of the Central Baptist Church and loved to listen to Gospel music. James and his wife Ruth did not have any children.
He is survived by his sister Alma Ruth Snapp of Limestone and several nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be 2:30 P.M. Monday at Monte Vista Burial Park Chapel with family receiving friends 2:00-2:30 P.M. prior to the service. Graveside services will be 3:00 P.M. with Boone Dam VFW Post #4933 providing military rites.
Condolences may be sent to the Mitchell family online at www.dillow-taylor.com.
Dillow-Taylor Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Jonesborough, 753-3821