Gerald Emmanuel Mitchell “Gerry”, 57, our beloved brother passed away on December 3rd surrounded by family after a long battle with numerous illnesses. He was born in Sedalia, North Carolina on Christmas Day but spent most of his life in Charlottesville, VA. He is preceded in death by his father, Melbourne B. Mitchell III. He is survived by his mother, Eloise A. Mitchell previously of Charlottesville but currently of University Place, WA, daughter Sharon Freeman of University Place, WA, sons Melbourne Mitchell, of Midlothian, VA, Donald “Corky” Mitchell of Charlottesville, his Aunt Mary Anderson, first cousins Cynthia Anderson, Gwendolyn Harris, many cousins and other relatives.

Gerry was best known for his colorful and inspiring collages. Those who knew him will attest to his good spirits, and his desire to help others by donating the proceeds from the sale of his art to groups such as the AIDS Support Group, the University of Virginia Cancer Center, and the Kosovo Refugees. He was an inspiration to others who marveled at his will to live a full life in spite of seriousness of his illnesses and disabilities.

Gerry earned his Bachelor Degree of Art from Virginia Commonwealth University and his Masters’ degree from Yale. He loved to travel and spent years living abroad in New Zealand and Madrid, Spain where he taught English. Gerry loved the vast experiences gained through travel which indirectly influenced his artistic style. He returned to Charlottesville in 1995 and remained here until his death.

Family and friends may share memories of him at his memorial and celebrate of his life on Friday, December 9th at 1:00 p.m. at his church home Trinity Episcopal Church with Rev. Cass Bailey officiating. He will be sorely missed.

J. F. Bell Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

BACK