Michael Mitchell

(From Parker Mortuary)

Michael Clayton Mitchell, age 71, passed away on Thursday, December 1st, 2022 at his home surrounded by family.

Michael was born on May 25th, 1951 in Joplin, MO to the late Homer and Grace (Clayton) Mitchell. 

He married the love of his life, Becky Huff on March 10th, 1973 at First Baptist Church in Joplin. Together they were blessed with two children, Brye and Mica. They were married for 49 years before his passing. 

Michael was a part of the 1972 Missouri Southern State University Football Championship Team. On September 24th, 2020 this championship team was inducted into the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame as the first collegiate football team in the state of Missouri to win a National Championship. Michael later went on to coach at Memorial High School in Joplin and won the 1976 State Championship game. He also coached track and wrestling and taught drivers ed. 

After leaving the school he went into sales for a period of time until he retired in 2007. Shortly after retiring, he started working as a bus driver for Head Start in 2008 until 2021. 

Michael loved looking after those kids. He enjoyed cars, drag racing, NASCAR and especially “cruise night” in Joplin. He loved his Harley Davidson and even went on a 48-state continuous bike ride at one point. He was a Hog member and enjoyed riding around with the Harley crew during Christmas time taking Christmas Wreaths to all the veterans graves. He also enjoyed golfing and fishing. But, most importantly he loved being a “papa” to his grandkids.

Michael is survived by his wife, Becky Mitchell of the home; one son, Brye Mitchell and wife, Kara, of Chattanooga, TN; one daughter, Mica O’Dell and husband, Clay, of Republic, MO; one brother, James Mitchell and wife, Vicki, of Cherryville, NC; three grandkids, Bryn Mitchell, Kiya Mitchell, and Everett O’Dell; and a host of extended family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be sent to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network or Joplin Humane Society.

Visitation will be held on Monday, December 5th, 2022 at Parker Mortuary from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Tuesday, December 6th, 2022 at Parker Mortuary at 2:00 p.m. with Toby Huff officiating.

Arrangements are under the special care and direction of Parker Mortuary.