Influential businessman and community leader Billy Jack Mitchell passed away Sunday

Billy Jack Mitchell, age 82 of Rainsville, passed away on Sunday, May 8, 2016 surrounded by his beloved family. He was born April 2, 1934 on Sand Mountain, and attended school at Dean’s Chapel, Powell, and Fyffe. He is preceded in death by his Parents: Curtis O. and Lola Audean Mitchell, Sisters: Bobbie Lynn Kuykendall and Ruby Lee Jones, and Brother: Paul David Mitchell.

He is survived by his wife of 59 years: Shirley McCurdy Mitchell, Son and Daughter-in- Law: Mark and Kelly Mitchell, Daughter: Felicia Mitchell, Grandson: Matthew and his wife, Tasha Mitchell, Granddaughters: Megan Mitchell and Ellie Fleming, Sister: Eva Mae Wood, and Brother: Larry Bruce Mitchell.

Hard work and taking care of others were traits that came natural to him. Growing up in a large family, he put his sense of responsibility into action and left high school early to work in the family cotton gin and farming business with his father and uncles. As a young man, in his twenties and thirties, his endeavors included owning two cotton gins and potato packing houses. He always had a love for farming and his favorite place to visit in any town was the local farmers market.

In 1965, he was hired by State Farm to open its first office in Rainsville. During the 29 years he was in the insurance business, he received numerous awards and accolades for the success of the agency. Throughout his career he was also involved in banking, real estate, land development, and many other business ventures, and was a partner in the development of Kirk Memorial Gardens. He loved to travel with his devoted wife, Shirley, and they visited over 30 countries. Besides watching Westerns, his favorite hobby was fishing, never missing a crappie or bream season. He was always ready to host or attend a good fish fry.

He loved his family immensely and was always smiling proudly in the stands or audience while watching his grandchildren. He faithfully attended Plainview Church of God, and was a joyful giver who always believed in helping others. Funeral service will be Wednesday, May 11 at 2:00 p.m. at Rainsville Funeral Home chapel with interment to follow at Kirk Memorial Gardens. Visitation will be Tuesday evening from 5:00 until 8:00, and prior to Wednesday’s service from Noon until 2:00 p.m. Pastors Tommy Williams, Melvin Dawson, and Gary Haymon will be officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations made in his memory to Cornerstone Christian Academy.