Joseph Floyd Mitchell

Chief Master Sergeant Joseph Floyd Mitchell Joseph “Floyd” Mitchell was born on July 3, 1941, in Supply, North Carolina, to the late Rhoda and George Mitchell. He passed away peacefully on June 11, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of faith, service, leadership, and love. In addition to his parents, Joseph was preceded in death by his son Patrick Lair, siblings Dorothy (Archie L) Gore, Edna (George) Latimer, George (Elvie) Mitchell Jr., Charlie (Minnie P) Mitchell, James (Lorraine) Mitchell, Morris (Pearlistine) Mitchell, Curtis (Thelma) Mitchell, and Esther (John) Kilby. From an early age, Joseph exhibited the leadership, intellect, and character that would define his life. During his high school years, he served as Class President and graduated as Salutatorian of his class. He was also recognized by his classmates as “Best Looking,” “Most Dependable," and “Most Scholarly"—honors that reflected his integrity and bright future. So well known for his handsome appearance, he earned the affectionate nickname "Pretty Boy Floyd," which remained with him throughout much of his life and brought smiles to those who knew him. Joseph answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Air Force on March 7, 1960. After graduating basic training at Lackland AFB, Texas, Joseph was transferred to Amarillo, TX to attend tech school as an Organizational Supply Specialist. Joseph was first in his class and given his first choice for his permanent duty assignment. Joseph chose England AFB, Louisiana since his older brother James was stationed there. His next assignment was Thailand. While there, he learned the language and fell in love with the country. Joseph met the love of his life Lynn, who was also in the Air Force at Cannon AFB, New Mexico. In addition to being stationed in Thailand, Louisiana, and New Mexico, his military career took him throughout the United States and around the world to Greenland, Panama, Virginia, New York, Montana, North Dakota, and Texas. Joseph also had Temporary Duty Assignments in Alabama, Africa, Australia, Colorado, El Salvador, Florida, Idaho, Japan, Korea and Norway. He truly enjoyed his 27 years, 5 months and 24 days in the USAF. Through hard work, dedication, and exceptional leadership, he rose through the ranks to become Chief Master Sergeant (E-9), the highest enlisted rank in the United States Air Force. His distinguished service earned him numerous awards, decorations and honors including the Meritorious Service Medal with four Oak Leaf Clusters, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal with one Oak Leaf Cluster, Expert Marksmanship Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Air Force Good Conduct Medal with eight Oak Leaf Clusters, and the Presidential Unit Citation. These commendations reflected his unwavering dedication to duty, exceptional performance, and commitment to serving his country with honor and distinction. While serving in the military Joseph prioritized and furthered his education. He earned an Associates Degree in Material Management from the Community College of the Air Force and his Bachelor of Arts Degree in Business from St. Leo University (Magna Cum Laude.) After more than 27 years of outstanding, meritorious, and honorable service, he retired on September 1, 1987, with an impeccable and unblemished record. After retiring Joseph was offered a job in Saudi Arabia, but decided not to take it. He and Lynn talked about raising their children in Thailand or Panama, but ultimately decided on California. After moving to Los Angeles, Joseph was offered a job at Cal State LA University which he truly enjoyed. Following retirement, Joseph remained active as the founder and longtime president of an investment club, a role he held for many years. His next adventure was owning a Children’s Gym with his wife and youngest daughter Tiwana in Danville, CA for 10 years. After years in California, he and Lynn decided they were moving to Brazil or Panama, but opted to buy a home in Panama. They fell in love with Panama while stationed there, and Joseph enjoyed the fishing and delicious food like ceviche and all the different varieties of mango and apple bananas. They made so many friends in Panama. They eventually decided since their kids and grandchildren were in the United States they would sell their home and remain in California. Joseph truly loved and enjoyed his family. Beyond his many accomplishments, Joseph had many hobbies. Joseph was known to most as an amazing chef whose talent in the kitchen brought people together and created lasting memories. He proudly won a chili cook-off and dazzled family and friends with his delicious pies, mouthwatering barbeque, flavorful dishes, and the fresh fruits and vegetables he lovingly grew in his home garden. He also loved playing pinochle with family and friends. Exploring the world was also a source of great joy. Lynn, Joseph and their children continued to travel after the Air Force to many different countries. A gifted linguist, Joseph was fluent in both Thai and Sign Language, allowing him to connect with people from many cultures and backgrounds. Above all, Joseph treasured fellowshipping with family and friends, sharing stories, laughter, wisdom, and love with those around him. His warm spirit, engaging personality, and genuine interest in others made him a beloved presence wherever he went. Joseph leaves behind a loving family and a host of cherished friends who will forever treasure his memory and the legacy he leaves behind. He is survived by his wife of 46 years Lynn Mitchell, his children James Donald Lair (Miesha), Linda Bowie, Sonya Mitchell Williams (Serge), Joseph Mitchell II, Tiwana Mitchell, his grandchildren Donald, Talia, Anthony, Natasha, Joseph, Shelonda, Patrick, Stephen, Sheridan, and Savannah, 19 great grandchildren, brother Alvin (Rebecca) Mitchell, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends. Though he will be deeply missed, Joseph's legacy of faith, service, leadership, and love will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him. We take comfort in knowing his race was well run, his work on Earth is complete, and that he now rests in eternity.

There will be a closed casket Graveside service held on Friday at 1:00 P.M. at Clay Branch Cemetery.946 Little Macedonia Road NW, Supply, North Carolina.  Burial, with full military honors, will follow.

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