Elmer Edward Mitchell, 96, of Danville departed this life to go to his Forever Home on April 12, 2015 at Boone Memorial Hospital following a short illness.
Due to Elmer’s heroic patriotism while serving in World War II in the 29th Infantry, he was the recipient of numerous prestigious metals and awards he earned by showing strong courage and heartfelt devotion for his country that he wholesomely loved and showed immense pride in serving. Those awards and metals include: Good Conduct Award, European African Middle Eastern Service Award, four Bronz metals, Oak Leaf Bronz Arrowhead Award, Presidential Unit Citation, Combat Infantry Award and Expert Rifleman Award. Elmer was also the proud recipient of a Purple Heart Combat Award. He was exceptionally proud of the two years and four months he served overseas fighting for his country, particularly landing on the beach of Normandy on June 7, 1944.
Elmer retired from Operation Engineers following many years of dedicated service. Also, he was a long time member of Cox’s Fork Freewill Baptist Church.
He was preceded in death by his wife and the mother of his children, Mishie; his parents, Horton and Rachel Mitchell; brothers, Carcil, Willard, Shelly and Freeman; sisters, Alma Adkins, Liddie Bias and his twin sister, Thelmer Vess.
He is survived by many beloved family members and friends who are left to cherish his memories, including: his son, Elmer (Lesley) Mitchell Jr. and his daughter, Edna Fay Workman both of Danville; his granddaughter, Elicia (Freddie) Baisden of Alum Creek; grandsons Cory Mitchell of Powell Creek and Tyson Mitchell of St. Albans; great-grandsons, Randy Berry II, Jaden, Lucas, Matthew and Blake; and one great granddaughter Angel. Ms. Lenora Johnson, Elmer’s faithful caregiver is also left to mourn the passing of her long-time friend.
Service will be 2 p.m. Wednesday, April 15, 2015 at Handley Funeral Home, Danville with Harley Egnor officiating. Burial will follow in Memory Gardens, Madison with Military Graveside Rites performed by Daniel Boone VFW Post 5578, Madison, WV.
Friends may call from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home.