Derek James Mitchell's Obituary
Derek James Mitchell left this earthly life on April 20, 2021 in Tempe Arizona. Born in Tampa and raised in Trinity, Florida, Derek loved his family, his friends, his dogs and he held a special place in his heart and mind for children, and those who were homeless or hungry.
Known for his magnetic smile, which could light up any room, Derek cared deeply for his family, friends and those he loved. His interests included all things outdoors, sports—especially basketball, taking good care of his dogs, working out, and for the last several years, the practice of yoga, particularly Bikram.
Derek earned his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a triple major in Real Estate, Finance and Entrepreneurship from Florida State University, graduating Magna Cum Laude. He would go on to complete 49 credit hours towards his Master of Science degree in Building Construction at the University of Florida in Gainesville where he enjoyed the study and concentration of sustainable practices. Using his education and experience, Derek built over 40 homes in New Port Richey, worked for Balfour Beatty on an interstate road project in Austin, Texas, and most recently a work and live condominium project in Scottsdale, Arizona. Derek was coming home to work on a major project that will help promote the quality of life in Pasco County.
Survived by his loving parents, Dewey and Becky Mitchell, sister Carly and brother-in-law James Wilson, and nephews Jimmy and Bodhi Wilson, Derek is predeceased by his grandparents Jim and Dorothy Mitchell and Eugene Rippy, along with his Uncles Jimmy Mitchell, Jim Avery, Aunt Tyra Durbin, and Cousin Ryan Durbin. Derek predeceased his maternal grandmother, Lucille Rippy of Bowling Green, Kentucky. Additionally, he leaves behind his Aunts Mary Mitchell Avery and Melissa Williford, Uncle Chris Rippy (Sherry), cousins Linda Chapman, Samantha Houle (Steve), Mary Pfaffko (Max), James Dean Mitchell (Sarahy), Seth Williford (Holly), Taylor Williford, and Amber Cassibry (Gary). There are many more extended family members, but Derek always had a special relationship with Chelsea Houle and Kaelynn Moore. He also leaves behind his dear and treasured friend Hillary Madler.
Derek left us too early. But he will be remembered and cherished for all he offered the world through his bright mind, caring heart, love of children, infectious laugh and loving spirit.
A memorial service will be held Saturday May 1st at Generations Christian Church. The family will receive friends and family for visitation from 2:30 until the service begins at 4:00PM
Link to live stream for funeral service:
https://vimeo.com/543283310
Burial will be private following the funeral service.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests charitable donations to: Metropolitan Ministries Pasco,
https://secure.metromin.org/site/SPageNavigator/2021_Impact_Fund.html?_ga=2.83465813.239397387.1619552682-579418342.1615296519
SPCA Suncoast Pasco,
https://secure.qgiv.com/for/spcsun
One Community Now,
https://onecommunitynow.com/donate-now/
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