Phillip Earl Mitchell

Phillip Earl Mitchell, a beloved member of the Milroy, Indiana community, passed away peacefully on June 10, 2024 at Timber Creek Village. He was 87 years old. Born on February 1, 1937, in Battle Ground, Indiana, Phil was the son of M. Paul and Gertrude A. Mitchell and the youngest of nine children. From a young age, he exhibited a passion for learning and a deep curiosity about the world around him. This thirst for knowledge led him to pursue a career in agricultural education at his beloved Purdue University, and then he went on to teach in Milroy where he made significant contributions and earned the respect and admiration of his community. Phil was a dedicated family man who cherished his role as a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He married Nancy J. Hedrick in 1961 and cherished his 62 years with her, and together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and precious memories. Their home was always open to friends and family, and Phil’s warm and welcoming nature made everyone feel at ease in his presence. In addition to his commitment to his family, Phil was deeply committed to his community. He served the Milroy community as school principal for 40 years, retiring in 1999, and then went on to serve as a local pastor for Glenwood and New Salem United Methodist churches. He was actively involved in various local organizations and volunteered his time and expertise to make a positive impact. Whether it was coaching baseball, serving time as the UMYF leader, leading the local scouting program, volunteering as a 4-H leader for 60 years, driving the bus for various school activities and sporting events, organizing community events, or lending a helping hand to those in need, Phil’s selflessness and generosity knew no bounds. Phil received numerous awards and recognition for his distinguished service. Some of these include the Indiana Jefferson Award, the Silver Beaver Award, the Indiana I-Star Award, the Rush County Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year Award, and numerous others. Outside of his professional and community endeavors, Phil had a wide range of interests. He loved to play cards with friends, enjoyed getting a competitive game of Scrabble going with his family, researched and documented family history, gathered with his friends on Saturday mornings, organized and volunteered at the local food pantry that he helped start, and devoted much energy and time to the local community foundation. He also had a passion for gardening and spent countless hours tending to his large vegetable garden. Phil loved the outdoors and enjoyed traveling with Nancy to over 30 countries, creating cherished memories that will be treasured forever. Phil will be remembered for his kind heart, gentle spirit, generosity, and unwavering integrity. He touched the lives of all who knew him and leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and dedication. Preceding Phil in death were his parents, siblings and in-laws Marjorie (Don) Heman, Jeanne (Roy) Werner, Frances (Harold) Clifton, Carol (Don) Crookston, David (Shirley and Mary) Mitchell, Floyd Mitchell, Jack Weekley, and Jesse Mae Mitchell, and daughter-in-law Trish. He is survived by his devoted wife, Nancy, his children Mike (Tamara) of Knoxville, Tennessee, Mark of Dallas, Texas, Julie (Dean Leisure) of Arlington, Indiana, Jeff (JJ) of Fishers, Indiana and his grandchildren—Makayla, Brett, Mallory, Isabella, Brooke, and Shea (Andrew). He is also survived by his sister Ruth, his sister-in-law Oveta, and a wide circle of extended family members and friends who will miss him dearly. A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held on Saturday, June 15 at Milroy United Methodist Church at 10:00 a.m. Pastor Mike Hedrick will preside. Calling will take place at the church from 3:00-8:00 p.m on Friday. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Rush County Community Foundation, Rush County Community Assistance, or the Milroy United Methodist Church in Phil's memory. Although Phil's physical presence will be deeply missed, his spirit will live on in the hearts of all those who had the privilege of knowing him. Moster Mortuary, Rushville, entrusted with arrangements.

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Phillip Earl Mitchell

February 1, 1937 - June 10, 2024