Louis Benson Mitchell

Louis Benson Mitchell, 88, of Pittsboro, died Sunday, April 6, 2014 at his home, following several years of declining health. He was surrounded by his family. Benson was born in Chatham County, NC, the son of the late Earlie and Arzona Mitchell. A combat veteran of WWII, he was most proud of his service in the US Army. He was a Combat Infantryman who was assigned as a Heavy Machine Gunner during the liberation of the Philippines and the occupation of Japan. Bensoneetired from Cooper-Harris Ford in Pittsboro many years ago. While ineetirement, he enjoyed working in his woodshop, fishing at the coast, gardening or spending time with his family. He loved music and playing his harmonica. He also loved everything related to nature, especially birds. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by a sister, Jenny Pierce and two brothers, Caley Mitchell and Laddie Mitchell. He is survived by his wife, Sylvia Beal Mitchell, of the home, and children Linda Jones Bill, Pamela Shuping Bill, Kaye Mitchell-May Norman May, Midge Mitchell, Tommy Mitchell.Marty, eight grandchildreneelanie Chew, Elizabeth Rice, Megan Suttles, Christina Jones, Katie Jarvis, Kyle Mitchell, Erin May and Aneew Shuping, and three great grandchildren Camille Chew, Eli Rice and Isaac Rice. He is also survived by two brothers, Earlie Mitchell and Homer Mitchell. The family will receive friends on Tuesday, April 8, 2014 from 6-8pm at Hall-Wynne Funeral Home in Pittsboro. A funeral service will be conducted oneednesday, April 9, 2014 at 2 p.m. at Gum Springs Baptist Church in Moncure, NC, with the Rev. Jackie Franks officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Guests are invited to join the family for a reception in the church fellowship hall immediately following the graveside service. His family and friends will miss his genuine and thoughtful qualities.