William Darrell Mitchell

William Darrell Mitchell, 80, passed away on Thursday, October 29, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, faith, and devotion to his family.

Darrell was born on July 30, 1946, in Pryor, Oklahoma, to William Basil “Babe” Mitchell and Sarah Ethel Mitchell. He spent his early years in Pryor before his family relocated to Vinita, Oklahoma, where he graduated from high school in 1964.

Following graduation, Darrell answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Air Force. During the Vietnam War, he was deployed to the Philippines and later stationed at Eglin Air Force Base in Florida. It was during this chapter of his life that he met the love of his life, Dorothy “Dottie” Mae Stevens. The two were married on August 22, 1970, beginning a beautiful marriage that would span 56 years.

After leaving the Air Force in 1970, Darrell and Dottie moved to Tahlequah, Oklahoma, where he continued his education and graduated from Northeastern State University. During his years in Oklahoma, he also worked at the iconic Glass House Restaurant at the Will Rogers Archway near Vinita.

Darrell spent much of his professional life in the aviation industry, eventually joining Gulfstream Aerospace in 1998. After more than two decades of dedicated service, he retired in 2019 as a Senior Customer Service Sales Specialist.

Outside of work, Darrell was a man of many interests and simple pleasures. He loved horse racing, cheering on his beloved Oklahoma Sooners, woodworking, classic cars, and, of course, a good dessert. As much as he loved all of these things, he found his greatest joy in the people God had placed in his life.

Above all, Darrell was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. He had a remarkable ability to see the best in everyone, and he would offer kindness and encouragement to anyone. His warm spirit, gentle nature, and genuine love for others left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him. So many people can share an “I’ll never forget the time…” story about Darrell Mitchell.

One of his greatest joys was being “D-Pa” to his three grandbabies, Leona, Aslyn, and Vayda, whom he affectionately called his “Pumpkin Eaters.” The love he had for his grandchildren was immeasurable, and the memories they shared will remain a treasured part of his legacy.

Darrell was a member of Centerpoint Community Church. Most importantly, he was a sinner saved by the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ. His hope was not in his own goodness or accomplishments, but in the finished work of his Savior. While his family grieves his earthly absence, they find comfort in the promises of Christ and the hope of eternal life through Him.

Darrell was preceded in death by his parents, William Basil “Babe” Mitchell and Sarah Ethel Mitchell, and his brother, Marty Mitchell.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years, Dorothy “Dottie” Mae Mitchell; his son, William Jeffrey Mitchell; his daughter, Katie M. Austin and son-in-law Joshua Austin; and his three cherished granddaughters, Leona Wilder Austin, Aslyn Wren Austin, and Vayda Maren Austin. He is also survived by his sisters, Marsha Schultz (Bill) and Debra Hoy (David), along with extended family members and dear friends.

Darrell's life was one marked by faithful love, quiet strength, and a generous heart. He will be deeply missed, fondly remembered, and forever loved.

Funeral Arrangements

Visitation will be held on Friday, November 6, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Carlson & Riggs Funeral Home.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, November 7, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Centerpoint Community Church, followed immediately by a graveside service with military honors at Effingham Memorial Gardens.

Pallbearers will be Steven Hester, Nathan Hester, Zack Lowe, Steve Wood, Randy Griffin, and Micheal Edenfield.