Mr. John Charley Mitchell Sr. of Lakeland transitioned from the temporary to the eternal in the presence of the Lord on Friday, August 2, 2024. He was born October 1, 1941, in Boston, Georgia, the son of the late Mr. John Thomas and Mrs. Retha Pittman Mitchell. John had made his home in Lakeland since 1982 after retiring from the military. John dedicated himself to serving his country with honor through the U.S. Coast Guard, his community with dedication as a Polk County Sherriff deputy, his family with love as a husband and father. His commitment to his faith was unwavering, and evident in his longstanding membership at Highland City Freewill Baptist Church. In 1997, John entered into marriage with his beloved wife, Cora Fitch. Together, they cherished nearly thirty years of shared experiences and adventures. His commitment to his wife didn't end with her passing, they are now reunited in paradise. John is survived by daughters, Bobbie Lanier (Jason) and Dee Dee Lucas; sons, John Mitchell, Jr. and Michael Mitchell; and grandchildren, Ryan Keith Adams (Alice Renee), Jeremy, Jenna, Jordan, Joy, Julianna, Andy and Cayla; nieces and nephews, Jill, John, Sara, Bart (Bri), Jordan and Mia; and one great-grandchildren, Aislynn and Scotland. A memorial service to commemorate and celebrate the life of Mr. Mitchell will be conducted on Friday, August 9, 2024, at 3:00 PM. Taking place at Gentry-Morrison Funeral Home, Southside Chapel. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Mr. Mitchell are graciously requested to be made to Veterans Association.