James Charles Mitchell, 69 passed away September 2, 2014 at his home in Chandler following a long battle with cancer.

He was born May 7, 1945 in Davenport, Oklahoma to James Curtis and Juanita Virginia Simon Mitchell.

James was raised in Stroud along with his siblings. As he grew up, he became a pure country boy at heart. Later on, he met the love of his life Jan Allen and they married on May 30, 1965. They made their home in Stroud and raised three children.

James was employed for many years as a maintenance mechanic at Allied in Stroud. After the plant closed, they relocated to Cushing, where he worked as a ranch hand for a few years. Then he worked for Harris Oil Gas Station for several years. He enjoyed his job working at the station. He liked getting to meet and visit with old friends and customers daily where he was known as “Papa.”

He had a passion for the outdoors. He loved fishing, hunting, camping, and working on special projects.

In the last few years, he really enjoyed the family trips to the Illinois River.

Most of all he enjoyed spending time with his family, especially the grandchildren and great grandchildren.

James was preceded in death by his parents, James and Juanita Mitchell; and a brother, Jerry Mitchell.

Survivors include his wife of 49 years, Jan, of the home; sons, Mark Mitchell of the home; Mike and his wife Mary Mitchell of Chandler; daughter, Tina and her husband Kevin Lane of Depew; sister, Karen Allen, of the home; daughter-in-law, Kristie Mitchell of Stillwater; twelve grandchildren, Terry Lane, Michelle Nichols, Shaun McDowell, Mark Mitchell, Jr., Ashley Lane, Dawnesha Mitchell, Ginny Mitchell, Dylan Mitchell, Zackary Jay, Caden Mitchell, Casey Mitchell and Cale Mitchell; six great-grandchildren; four brothers; three sisters; and numerous other family members and friends.

A celebration of life ceremony will be held at James and Jan's home on Thursday September 4, 2014 at 6:00 p.m. 717 East 10th Street, Chandler, Oklahoma 74834.

Arrangements were under the direction of Lehman Funeral Home of Wellston.