JACK MITCHELL was welcomed into the loving arms of Jesus July 4, 2010. Preceding him in death were his wife Thelma who passed away from cancer in 1966; parents Theodore and Callie; brothers Hollis, Carlisle and Wyre. Survived by his pride and joy, three daughters, Sandy (Tom) Diercks, Pam, Mindy (Lonnie) Gibbons; four dearly loved and cherished grandchildren Lisa, Erin-Kay, Lonnie and Mason and three great-grandsons. He was born Aug. 22, 1928 in Gurdon, Ark. and grew up in Little Rock where he graduated from Little Rock High School. He enjoyed playing football and running track. He was the starting center and linebacker on the number one high school team in the United States, winning the 1946 Toy Bowl National Championship title. He earned a full athletic scholarship to Ouachita Baptist University, where he met his wife Thelma. At Ouachita he was captain of the football team and President of the "O" Association (Lettermen's Club). During his HS/College years Jack was blessed with meaningful friendships that lasted throughout his lifetime. After college he coached football and track for three years at North Little Rock High School. He had a heartfelt compassion for helping youth and was thrilled to support and facilitate programs to help them succeed. Jack served as President of the Civil Service Commission in North Little Rock. His career spanned 37 years with a leading pharmaceutical company where he received numerous Top Salesman of the Year awards. An avid fisherman Jack passed this passion on to his children and grandchildren. He enjoyed Razorback football and watching the horses race at Oaklawn. Jack was a wonderful dad (and took on the role a "mom" also), an amazing granddad and dignified beloved Christian man. Such a selfless man, doing for others brought him great joy. His encouragement, support, positive influence, attitude, spirit of generosity and kindness will be missed by all. Heaven has welcomed a fun loving sweet man. A service to celebrate Jack's life will be held at Roller-Chenal Funeral Home (501)224-8300 at 10 a.m. Thursday, July 8, 2010. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Interment will be at Pinecrest Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to New Life Church, 8000 Crystal Hill Road, North Little Rock, Ark., 72118. Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/chenal.

Published July 6, 2010