Joseph Elliott Mitchell, Sr., age 83 of Vandalia, passed away March 25, 2020. He was born August 18, 1936 in Cincinnati, Ohio to the late Ernest and Ester Mitchell. In addition to his parents, Joe was preceded in death by his wife, Doris Jean Mitchell; children: James Mitchell and Wanda Mitchell; and granddaughter, Chasity.

Joe is survived by his children: Kathy Chism (Mike Hoganson), Patricia Erickson (Paul) and Joe Mitchell, Jr. (Sheila); 15 grandchildren: Rachel, Ryan, Joseph III, Keith, David, Doris, James, Josh, Haleigh, Shawn, Chrissy, Jessie, Jennifer, Jonathan and Jason; many great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Joe was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force and was a member of the American Legion Post # 619, AMVETS and VFW. Joe was a truck driver and retired after many years of service. Joe loved to gamble and sing karaoke.

In an effort to reduce the spread of COVID-19, the family will be holding a private gathering at Newcomer North Chapel, 4104 Needmore Road. Burial will take place at Forest Hills Memorial Gardens. Contributions may be made in Joe's memory to St. Jude's Children Research Hospital or to any local veteran's association. To share a memory of Joe or leave a special message for his family, please click the Share Memories button above.