Celebrating the life of
George Raymond Mitchell, Jr.
March 10, 1934 - February 05, 2012
George Raymond Ray Mitchell, Jr.
March 10, 1934 -- February 5, 2012
A beloved family man with many passions in life, Ray Mitchell of Camilla, Ga. died peacefully in Savannah, Ga.
Ray was born and raised in Atlanta. He was the son of the late George Raymond Mitchell, Sr. and Sara Mitchell Parsons. After graduating from North Fulton High, Ray attended the University of Georgia where he was an active member and president of Sigma Chi fraternity. Soon after graduating, Ray joined Crawford & Co. as an insurance adjuster in Savannah. In 1962, Ray and his young family moved to Statesboro, Ga. where he lived for nine years.
In 1970, Ray followed his passion for reading and writing to Emory University where he graduated with an M.A. degree in Library Science. The following year, Ray became the Regional Director of the DeSoto Trail Library System in Camilla, Ga., a position he held for over 30 years until his recent retirement. Throughout his life, Ray had many other
passions, including scuba diving, acting in community theater, traveling extensively in the U.S. and abroad, and motorcycling which included rides to the county seats of all 159 Georgia counties. Legally blind late in life as the result of diabetes, Ray became a leading advocate for increased funding of audio books in America's libraries.
Ray is survived by his children with former wife, Deborah Prather Loper, David R. Mitchell, and wife Kathleen, of Chicago, IL; GeorgeAnn Phillips, and husband David, of Grovetown, Ga.; Sarah Yates, and husband Brad, of Savannah, Ga.; and Larisa McMichael, and husband Stan, of Newnan, Ga.; stepchildren with the late Jane Smith Mitchell, Joy Davis and Kevin Oliver; grandchildren, Bowen and Hannah Phillips; Ella and Sonny Yates; Dinara McMichael; Colleen and Russ Mitchell; step grandchildren, Rackley and Mason Davis; sister, Susan Mitchell Rogers and brother, Perry Mitchell; aunt, Linda Perry; stepfather, Tom Parsons; loyal friend and caretaker, Joel Jackson; and loving companion, Jan Brackett.
In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to Literacy Volunteers of Atlanta www.lvama.org.
An outdoor Memorial Service will be held Saturday, February 11, 2012 at 11:00 a.m., in Lafayette Square E Charlton St. and E Jones St., immediately followed by a gathering at the home of Sarah and Brad Yates, 302 E Charlton St., Savannah, Ga.
Fox and Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
Jane and family, I am so sorry for your loss.
- Judith D. Brook, Atlanta, GA
It saddens me to have just heard the news of Mr. Ray’s passing. I'm so very sorry for your loss. Mr. Ray lives on in the memories of the many lives he touched. While growing up, I spent many days in the DeSoto Trail Library. My time spent there with Mr. Ray and his fellow Librarians inspired me to become a Librarian. His enthusiasm instilled in me a love for reading and desire to pass that love on to others. I am a better person for having known him, as I know the many others he touched are, too. He will be missed but not forgotten.
- Polly Swilley, Camilla, GA
We're so sorry we couldn't come down to Savannah, but we hope to see everyone soon! We love y'all and are sorry for your loss- Much love from Athens
- Adrian and Bubba, Athens, GA
Lara, Sending love and prayers to you and your sweet family. Mr. Ray was such an incredible man. You are so blessed to have had such a wonderful father. Love you!
- Cindy Parker Carswell, Fitzgerald, GA
I had the pleasure to meet Ray last summer on a Road Scholar trip to Scotland. We had many good conversations. I will remember his humor and good will.
- David Reilly, Lemont, IL
It was a pleasure to have met Ray. My sympathy to his family and to my friend Jan. Pat Egerton
- Pat Egerton, Bluffton, SC
Sarah and Brad, We are so sorry to hear about the passing of your father. He seemed to be a lot of fun and had many interests in life. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Mary Christy and Ryan Macdonald
- Mary Christy Macdonald, Savannah, GA
Ray and I were Co-Presidents in a book club. He had a razor sharp mind that cut through all the fluff and went straight to the heart of the matter.When he spoke-everyone listened- and he was always right. He was a lighthouse of a man- he saw beyond what others could. A gentle soft soul who touched more than I can ever express.
- Irene Reed, Bluffton, SC
I wish to extend my sympathy to Janice and Ray's family. With love,
- Vivian Petrucci, San Francisco, CA
Sarah, Larisa, GeorgeAnn & David. Thinking of you all. Loved Rays wit, great story telling and thirst for adventure and travel. A lot of folks did not know that for many years Ray was an avid bicycle rider, cycling many miles across GA and he could walk the legs off folks half his age. Prayer's and thoughts be with you and your families.
- Kevin & Laura Oliver, Bozeman, MT
Just the day previous to his passing, we met and laughed with Ray and Jan as we played bocce together. We so looked forward to more of his good nature and sense of fun. Our hearts feel deeply for you, Jan, and for his family.
- Phil & Dianne Jones, Bluffton, SC
We knew Ray for only two years or so. He had a passion for local history and he was very knowledgeable on the subject. Our love and sympathy to our neighbor Jan and also to all the family for your loss. Howard and Robin Chapman, Sun City
- Howard &Robin Chapman, Bluffton, SC
Lara, Sara, George Ann and David: I will forever remember Mr. Mitchell as the smartest man I have ever known and the best boss ever! A quiet, very laid back individual, until you messed with his children...then RUN!!! My life is so much better just by having him in it. Thanks for the memories!Jean Grissom Laster
- Jean Grissom Laster, Atlanta, GA
David R. So sorry to hear about your dad. Since the apple doesn't fall far from the tree. . . I know he was a good man and a kind soul. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. John and Jennifer xo
- Jennifer McCorkle, Matteson, IL
Sorry to hear of your loss.
- Bob Kenerly, , GA
David, so sorry about your father. Love to you and your family....Lucy
- LUCY G RICHARDSON, MACON, GA
My thoughts are with the whole family as you say goodbye to this wonderful man.
- Dana Taulli, Marietta, GA
My consolences for your family. Ray was a wonderful and talented man. Loved by many.
- Adayna Broome, Camilla, GA
We only got to know Ray recently, but found him to be very friendly and extremely interesting. He will be missed here in Sun City. Our Sympathy,love and prayers go out to all of you. Neighbors, Carol and Bob Black
- Carol Black, Bluffton Hilton Head, SC
We are keeping your whole family in our prayers. Much love, Ann and Tommy Jackson Sara Grace and Emma
- Ann Jackson, Palmetto, GA
I's so sorry for loss for the Mitchell family. This is yet another member of your family that I would have like to have known better. I'm thinking about you all.
- Brian Marx, Baltimore, MD
For Ray's family, know that our prayers and thoughts are with you. I am sure he is in heaven smiling down on all of you. Love, Cathi Perry Jordan and Lawrie Jordan
- Cathi Perry Jordan, Redlands, CA
I am so sorry for your loss. Mr. Ray was a Great Man and will truly be missed. I remember Lara and I running around the library like deranged children, but Mr. Ray never lost his cool although I am sure he was ready to beat us. Instead, he always gave us something else to occupy our time running the movie projector, drawing with the opaque projector, or listening to his stories. He was the most amazing story teller I have ever heard. He made the characters and the books come to life....especially Uncle Remus stories. A few months back, I took my great nephews to the 'Spirit of Camilla' train engine to explore and was suprised when we pushed the button for the story of the engine that a voice began to tell the story and bring that time to life. I told my husband to listen, that the voice was my friend Lara's dad. He asked, 'How do you know that it is him?' My reply, 'That is a voice you can never forget!' Much Love, Rhonda
- Rhonda Sharp Hooks, Lynn Haven, FL
My prayers and thoughts are with Janice, and Ray's family.
- Kathy Peterson, San Francisco, CA
Fare you well, fare you well I love you more than words can tell Listen to the river sing sweet songs to rock my soul
- dave kantor + family, , MI
Dear David and Kathleen: Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this difficult time. Love, Lisa, Andrew and William
- Lisa Pritzker, Chicago, IL
Very sorry to hear about Mr. Ray.. I have lots of fond memories of him and Ms. Jane, along with their love of dogs and cats....Prayer's and thoughts with your families.
- Larkie Williford Martin, Camilla, GA
David - Keith & I were so sorry to hear of your Dad's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this sorrowful time. Fondly, Linda & Keith Campbell
- Linda & Keith Campbell, Oak Brook,, IL
David R, may you celebrate your Daddy's passion for words and love of life. Deepest sympathies for his passing. Much love to you and your family.
- Jerry Steele, Oak Park, IL
Dear Sarah, GeorgeAnn, Laurisa and David, So sorry to hear of your Dad's passing. He was such an interesting Man. No one could tell a story better than he could. My Mama used to tell me quite often that when the Sunday School classes got word that 'Ray Mitchell' was going to speak, the classroom was always filled!! Everyone loved listening to him. He had a real talent for that. He was very unique and seemed to all who knew him very wise as well. I know you will miss him as all of us will too. My thoughts and prayers are with each of you. Take comfort in knowing he led a full life and touched the heart of many people. He will always be remembered and missed by all who knew him. Love Carol
- Carol Muggridge-Gaines, Gulf Breeze, FL
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad time. We had just gotten to know Ray in our Sun City neighborhood. His interesting stories and passion for living life to the fullest will be missed. Kaye and Joe Ramach
- Kaye Ramach, Bluffton, SC
We really enjoyed our time with Ray on the Bocce court. He will be very much missed! Our love to Ray and all of his family. Donna and Dick Williams
- Donna & Dick Williams, Bluffton, SC
David, my thoughts and prayers are with your family and you during this difficult time.
- Jan elder young, Athens, GA
May you rest in peace. You will not be forgotten by all that loved you.
- Capt. J. H.Maston, USN Ret. and Cathy Maston, Virginia Beach, VA
The world has lost a true renaissance man that lived life to the fullest and on his own terms. We will miss his wit and wisdom. May God's light shine upon him and give him peace.
- Joy Davis and Family, Albany, GA
George Ann and Family-- please know you are in our thoughts and prayers during this most difficult time.
- Mike & Teresa Meigs and Daryl, North Augusta, SC
George Ann Phillips, Praying for you and your family as you travel and gather in Savannah to remember your Dad.
- faye maddox, Augusta, GA
George ann and family you have my heart felt condolences for your lost . No words will help at this time ,just know you are loved and your friends are here when you need us .love always penny
- penny stensrud goodman, palm bay, FL
I met Mr. Mitchell one evening several years back, but I remember it well. He was a learned man and charming conversationalist, and I cherished the privilege of spending time with someone who helped shape one of my dearest friends. Much love to David R. and the rest of the Mitchell family.
- Robert Merlotti, Chicago, IL
Jane and family, I am so sorry for your loss.
- Judith D. Brook, Atlanta, GA
It saddens me to have just heard the news of Mr. Ray’s passing. I'm so very sorry for your loss. Mr. Ray lives on in the memories of the many lives he touched. While growing up, I spent many days in the DeSoto Trail Library. My time spent there with Mr. Ray and his fellow Librarians inspired me to become a Librarian. His enthusiasm instilled in me a love for reading and desire to pass that love on to others. I am a better person for having known him, as I know the many others he touched are, too. He will be missed but not forgotten.
- Polly Swilley, Camilla, GA
We're so sorry we couldn't come down to Savannah, but we hope to see everyone soon! We love y'all and are sorry for your loss- Much love from Athens
- Adrian and Bubba, Athens, GA
Lara, Sending love and prayers to you and your sweet family. Mr. Ray was such an incredible man. You are so blessed to have had such a wonderful father. Love you!
- Cindy Parker Carswell, Fitzgerald, GA
I had the pleasure to meet Ray last summer on a Road Scholar trip to Scotland. We had many good conversations. I will remember his humor and good will.
- David Reilly, Lemont, IL
It was a pleasure to have met Ray. My sympathy to his family and to my friend Jan. Pat Egerton
- Pat Egerton, Bluffton, SC
Sarah and Brad, We are so sorry to hear about the passing of your father. He seemed to be a lot of fun and had many interests in life. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Mary Christy and Ryan Macdonald
- Mary Christy Macdonald, Savannah, GA
Ray and I were Co-Presidents in a book club. He had a razor sharp mind that cut through all the fluff and went straight to the heart of the matter.When he spoke-everyone listened- and he was always right. He was a lighthouse of a man- he saw beyond what others could. A gentle soft soul who touched more than I can ever express.
- Irene Reed, Bluffton, SC
I wish to extend my sympathy to Janice and Ray's family. With love,
- Vivian Petrucci, San Francisco, CA
Sarah, Larisa, GeorgeAnn & David. Thinking of you all. Loved Rays wit, great story telling and thirst for adventure and travel. A lot of folks did not know that for many years Ray was an avid bicycle rider, cycling many miles across GA and he could walk the legs off folks half his age. Prayer's and thoughts be with you and your families.
- Kevin & Laura Oliver, Bozeman, MT
Just the day previous to his passing, we met and laughed with Ray and Jan as we played bocce together. We so looked forward to more of his good nature and sense of fun. Our hearts feel deeply for you, Jan, and for his family.
- Phil & Dianne Jones, Bluffton, SC
We knew Ray for only two years or so. He had a passion for local history and he was very knowledgeable on the subject. Our love and sympathy to our neighbor Jan and also to all the family for your loss. Howard and Robin Chapman, Sun City
- Howard &Robin Chapman, Bluffton, SC
Lara, Sara, George Ann and David: I will forever remember Mr. Mitchell as the smartest man I have ever known and the best boss ever! A quiet, very laid back individual, until you messed with his children...then RUN!!! My life is so much better just by having him in it. Thanks for the memories!Jean Grissom Laster
- Jean Grissom Laster, Atlanta, GA
David R. So sorry to hear about your dad. Since the apple doesn't fall far from the tree. . . I know he was a good man and a kind soul. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. John and Jennifer xo
- Jennifer McCorkle, Matteson, IL
Sorry to hear of your loss.
- Bob Kenerly, , GA
David, so sorry about your father. Love to you and your family....Lucy
- LUCY G RICHARDSON, MACON, GA
My thoughts are with the whole family as you say goodbye to this wonderful man.
- Dana Taulli, Marietta, GA
My consolences for your family. Ray was a wonderful and talented man. Loved by many.
- Adayna Broome, Camilla, GA
We only got to know Ray recently, but found him to be very friendly and extremely interesting. He will be missed here in Sun City. Our Sympathy,love and prayers go out to all of you. Neighbors, Carol and Bob Black
- Carol Black, Bluffton Hilton Head, SC
We are keeping your whole family in our prayers. Much love, Ann and Tommy Jackson Sara Grace and Emma
- Ann Jackson, Palmetto, GA
I's so sorry for loss for the Mitchell family. This is yet another member of your family that I would have like to have known better. I'm thinking about you all.
- Brian Marx, Baltimore, MD
For Ray's family, know that our prayers and thoughts are with you. I am sure he is in heaven smiling down on all of you. Love, Cathi Perry Jordan and Lawrie Jordan
- Cathi Perry Jordan, Redlands, CA
I am so sorry for your loss. Mr. Ray was a Great Man and will truly be missed. I remember Lara and I running around the library like deranged children, but Mr. Ray never lost his cool although I am sure he was ready to beat us. Instead, he always gave us something else to occupy our time running the movie projector, drawing with the opaque projector, or listening to his stories. He was the most amazing story teller I have ever heard. He made the characters and the books come to life....especially Uncle Remus stories. A few months back, I took my great nephews to the 'Spirit of Camilla' train engine to explore and was suprised when we pushed the button for the story of the engine that a voice began to tell the story and bring that time to life. I told my husband to listen, that the voice was my friend Lara's dad. He asked, 'How do you know that it is him?' My reply, 'That is a voice you can never forget!' Much Love, Rhonda
- Rhonda Sharp Hooks, Lynn Haven, FL
My prayers and thoughts are with Janice, and Ray's family.
- Kathy Peterson, San Francisco, CA
Fare you well, fare you well I love you more than words can tell Listen to the river sing sweet songs to rock my soul
- dave kantor + family, , MI
Dear David and Kathleen: Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this difficult time. Love, Lisa, Andrew and William
- Lisa Pritzker, Chicago, IL
Very sorry to hear about Mr. Ray.. I have lots of fond memories of him and Ms. Jane, along with their love of dogs and cats....Prayer's and thoughts with your families.
- Larkie Williford Martin, Camilla, GA
David - Keith & I were so sorry to hear of your Dad's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this sorrowful time. Fondly, Linda & Keith Campbell
- Linda & Keith Campbell, Oak Brook,, IL
David R, may you celebrate your Daddy's passion for words and love of life. Deepest sympathies for his passing. Much love to you and your family.
- Jerry Steele, Oak Park, IL
Dear Sarah, GeorgeAnn, Laurisa and David, So sorry to hear of your Dad's passing. He was such an interesting Man. No one could tell a story better than he could. My Mama used to tell me quite often that when the Sunday School classes got word that 'Ray Mitchell' was going to speak, the classroom was always filled!! Everyone loved listening to him. He had a real talent for that. He was very unique and seemed to all who knew him very wise as well. I know you will miss him as all of us will too. My thoughts and prayers are with each of you. Take comfort in knowing he led a full life and touched the heart of many people. He will always be remembered and missed by all who knew him. Love Carol
- Carol Muggridge-Gaines, Gulf Breeze, FL
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad time. We had just gotten to know Ray in our Sun City neighborhood. His interesting stories and passion for living life to the fullest will be missed. Kaye and Joe Ramach
- Kaye Ramach, Bluffton, SC
We really enjoyed our time with Ray on the Bocce court. He will be very much missed! Our love to Ray and all of his family. Donna and Dick Williams
- Donna & Dick Williams, Bluffton, SC
David, my thoughts and prayers are with your family and you during this difficult time.
- Jan elder young, Athens, GA
May you rest in peace. You will not be forgotten by all that loved you.
- Capt. J. H.Maston, USN Ret. and Cathy Maston, Virginia Beach, VA
The world has lost a true renaissance man that lived life to the fullest and on his own terms. We will miss his wit and wisdom. May God's light shine upon him and give him peace.
- Joy Davis and Family, Albany, GA
George Ann and Family-- please know you are in our thoughts and prayers during this most difficult time.
- Mike & Teresa Meigs and Daryl, North Augusta, SC
George Ann Phillips, Praying for you and your family as you travel and gather in Savannah to remember your Dad.
- faye maddox, Augusta, GA
George ann and family you have my heart felt condolences for your lost . No words will help at this time ,just know you are loved and your friends are here when you need us .love always penny
- penny stensrud goodman, palm bay, FL
I met Mr. Mitchell one evening several years back, but I remember it well. He was a learned man and charming conversationalist, and I cherished the privilege of spending time with someone who helped shape one of my dearest friends. Much love to David R. and the rest of the Mitchell family.
- Robert Merlotti, Chicago, IL
Services under the direction of:
Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
912-352-7200

