Chester Mitchell

Chester Mitchell, affectionately known as “Uncle Chester” or “Dec” was born April 3rd, 1947, to the parents of Richard [Cas] and Jesse Mitchell, who proceeded him in death. He was the twin sibling of Lester Mitchell. He was the sixth child amongst his ten siblings, two of which proceeded him in death, Robert Newton, and Robert Mitchell. 

From all accounts, Chester was an energetic and vivacious child growing up and a humorous prankster. He grew up to be very charismatic and sociable. He graduated from Salem High School in Salem, New Jersey. He joined the United States Army in 1968 as a cook and served 17 years. He toured in Korea and Germany and was stationed in various military installations over his years of service. 

Chester Mitchell married Mary Henry, who proceeded him in death. From this union Chester Mitchell Jr was born in 1974. Chester has two other children from previous relationships, Dawn Parker, and Tony Hill. 

Chester took pride in his outward appearance. He dressed to impress. He would light up when he received compliments. He would open his suit jacket, twirl around, and really give them a show!

Chester loved attending church services and fellowshipping with the members. Often, he would testify and request prayers from the elders. He loved gospel music and was seen often tapping his foot or clapping his hands. 

Chester was the uncle who was available for his nieces and nephews. It was evident that he enjoyed interacting with them. He would buy them treats and wink when handing off the snacks with a smile. He helped many learn to ride bikes and when he provided adult supervision, he made it memorable. 

In 1990, Chester suffered a Traumatic Brain Injury from a violent assault which changed the trajectory of his life. He was comatose for three months and suffered from violent seizures. It stole his self-sufficiency, diminished his mental capacity and memory, limited his communication skills; however, it did not deplete his personality, kindness, humor, or resiliency. Chester lived with his older brother, Bishop James Mitchell and his wife Mildred Mitchell and their immediate family for approximately 35 years. He developed his own way of communicating. If he gave the thumbs up gesture, then you knew it was all good. Over the years, some memory returned. He became an avid pool player again and recognized some distant family members.

In heaven, Chester will have a new body that will be free of ailments and limitations. His memory and mind will be intact. He will be the one with the thumbs up. Rest well and know you are loved by your family and friends! We will miss you tremendously until our heavenly reunion.

Local arrangements are in the care of McReynolds-Nave & Larson Funeral Home, 1209 Madison St, Clarksville, TN 37040. A visitation will take place from 2 to 4 pm on Saturday, February 1, 2025. He will be laid to rest at a later date at the Salem County Veterans Cemetery in Pilesgrove Township, New Jersey.

Online condolences may be made at www.NaveFuneralHomes.com