Obituary of Carl Dewie Mitchell Sr.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Carl Dewie Mitchell, Sr. at the age of 97. He was born on September 10, 1926 in Corinth, Mississippi, or “Sissimippi”, as Dad jokingly pronounced his home state. He departed this world for Heaven to be with the Lord on July 11, 2024 with his family at his bedside.

Carl is predeceased by his mother Mae Newcomb Mitchell, father Dewie Mitchell, brother Gaston Mitchell, sister Margaret Bradley (Rady), wife Marlene Eakin Mitchell, sons Carl Mitchell, Jr., and Sidney Myron Mitchell. He is survived by his daughter Nancy Mitchell Mollard (Dwayne), daughter-in-law Robin Reeves Mitchell, sister-in-law Inez Mitchell, and grandchildren Chris Mitchell (Kylie), Garrett Mitchell, Courtney Mitchell Formby (Lane), Andrea Mollard, several nieces and nephews, including Bobby Mitchell and his son Austin Mitchell, and great grandchildren Gavin Mitchell, Sawyer Hutto, Hayes Mitchell, Mayer Formby, and Moody Formby.

Carl led a remarkable life, deeply rooted in his faith and service to others. His service to his country in the US Army during WW2 exemplifies his courage and resilience. He served in the Asia-Pacific theater, first training in Florida, and later traveling to California to board a ship to the Philippines. After finishing an assignment there, he and his brothers-in-arms were enjoying the beach when their superior informed them that “you boys aren’t done yet.” They replied, “WHAT?” They soon boarded a train to Hokkaido, Japan. On the way, a blizzard brought the train to a standstill, with snow covering the majority of the cars. The engine was kept on in order to keep them warm while surviving on 10-in-1 rations for food. Carl was quick to point out that he “carried a pistol on his hip and a rifle across his shoulder.”

As a young man, Carl would travel to the Midwest to help America Indians harvest their crops, and supported many other worthwhile charity organizations throughout his life.

Carl married the love of his life, Marlene Eakin on November 11, 1950 at 11:00, Veterans Day. They lived a remarkable 70 years together until the death of Marlene on June 21, 2021. Starting off together in Galena Park, Texas, they soon moved to Pasadena, Texas, where they lived for most of their lives, sharing three children, daughter Nancy, and sons Carl Jr. and Myron. Later in life, they moved to Pearland, Texas.

Carl’s active involvement in South Avenue Baptist Church in Pasadena, Texas, where he taught Sunday School, reflecting his faith and love for Christian fellowship. His life work was at Armco Steel Corporation, from where he retired.

Carl shared a passion for car racing with his brother and sons. He also had a passion for professional baseball, supporting Houston teams such as the earlier Colt 45s and later the Astros. He loved to discuss the players, their statistics, and what teams they previously played for.  He loved and was completely devoted to his family, excited to gather for the many holiday celebrations while supporting his children and grandchildren in their many interests and endeavors.

Carl leaves behind a legacy of service, strength, and love for his family, friends, and community. His story is one of resilience, faith, and enduring commitment. He was greatly loved and will be sorely missed by his family and friends.

Services for Carl will be held on Monday, July 22, 2024 at Clayton Funeral Home, 5530 West Broadway St., Pearland, Texas. The funeral service will be at 10AM, with Pastor Jim Overton officiating. Interment, with military honors, will be after the service at 1PM at Houston National Cemetery, 10410 Veterans Memorial Dr., Houston, Texas 77038.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Carl Mitchell, Sr. to Tunnel to Towers Foundation or Wounded Warrior Project.