Mr. John Ivor Mitchell

In Loving Memory Of; John Ivor Mitchell was born on June 14, 1945 in Rendville, Ohio to Gilbert and Gertrude Mitchell. He was affectionately known to his family and friends as Johnny, Mitch, Big John, and Uncle Buck. John spent his formative years in Rendville, where his grandmother, Sophia Mitchell served as the first black woman appointed to mayor in the United States. He could be found in the hollows and hills of Rendville playing with his brothers and sisters. John could also be found at church, where he accepted the Lord as his savior at an early age. John was a graduate of Corning High School and continued his education at Central State University in Wilberforce, Ohio. In 1965, John enlisted in the U.S. Army and served his country for two years during the Vietnam War, where he was honorably discharged. After returning from the war and staying with his brother, Don in Gary, Indiana he moved to Detroit, Michigan. John worked at the Chrysler McGraw Glass plant for two years before deciding to pursue a life of public service as a Detroit Police Officer. He joined the force on March 2, 1970, where he advanced to the rank of Sergeant. During his time as a police officer, he enjoyed the time he was able to spend with some of his DPD brothers as a member of the Tug of War team. John retired from the police department after 20 years of service. After retirement, he worked as a security officer for 10 years at Providence Hospital in Southfield, Michigan. During his time as a police officer, he met Bevelyn Terry and married her on August 16, 1975. Bevelyn was truly the love of his life and they did everything together, including trips to Belle Isle, playing cards, and taking road trips. To their union was born two daughters, Jessica and Sharon. John loved his daughters and was the epitome of a “girl dad”. At any given time, you could find John doing some of his favorite things. He enjoyed barbequing (his homemade sauce was legendary), bowling, watching his westerns, World War II movies, and all things related to technology. He also enjoyed participating in activities with the International Free and Accepted Modern Masons and Order of the Eastern Star of which he was a member for 50 years and ascended to the level of 33rd degree. He loved music and Gladys Knight and Aretha Franklin were two of his favorite artists. He also enjoyed the holidays, with Christmas being his favorite. John loved sports and Tiger Woods and Serena Williams were some of the people he enjoyed watching compete. The Detroit Lions always brought him a sense of misery. In addition to these things, John was also a good neighbor. He served as the editor for the Oakman Boulevard Community Association newsletter for over 20 years and was a resident of the Strivers’ Row block on Oakman Boulevard for over 42 years. On March 1, 2020, John decided that he was ready to release all of the pain caused by his illnesses and transitioned from this side to the other side. Even during his illnesses, he never lost his positive outlook on life, quick wit, or caring nature. Although his desire to regain the use of his legs on this side was never realized, he is now able to run and jump in the presence of God.

Mr. John Ivor Mitchell

June 14, 1945 - March 1, 2020