Eddie Franklin Mitchell Jr.

Eddie Franklin Mitchell Jr., 73, of Jonesboro, passed from this life on Monday, February 24, 2025, after a long and courageous battle with Parkinson’s Disease. He was constantly surrounded by his loving wife, son and family at the Flo and Phil Jones Hospice House.

Eddie was born on September 1, 1951, in Cotton Plant to the late Eddie and Lena Mitchell. He graduated from Cotton Plant High School in 1969 and went on to earn his Master’s Degree from Arkansas State University. His passion for education and sports led him to a career in teaching and coaching. He began at Westside Schools and spent a short stint at Harrisburg Schools before dedicating the rest of his career to Westside Schools, where he made a lasting impact on countless students and athletes. In the last 10 years before retiring in 2013, Eddie served as Coach, Teacher, Transportation Director, Assistant Principal, head of the ACT Workshop for College Preparation, and Lead of Fellowship of Christian Athletes.  Notably, he was the first coach to lead Westside to the State Football Playoffs in 1986.

A devoted member of Walnut Street Baptist Church, Eddie shared his faith with his wife, Beryl. In his free time, he found joy in fishing and was an avid supporter of Razorback sports.

He is survived by his loving wife of 47 ½ years and the love of his life, Beryl Ferguson Mitchell of Jonesboro; his son, John David Mitchell of Jonesboro; his brothers, Larry Mitchell (Carol) of Colorado and Phillip Mitchell of Fort Smith; his sister, Loretta Carroll of Arizona; and his faithful K-9 companion and caretaker, Sophie.

The family extends a heartfelt thanks to the compassionate staff at The Flo and Phil Jones Hospice House, palliative care nurse Colleen, St. Bernards Villa therapists, and home health and physical therapists Travis Moody and Savannah Sims for their care and support.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, February 27, 2025, from 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. at Emerson Funeral Home. The service, officiated by Grey Falanga, will follow at 2:00 p.m. at Emerson Funeral Home. Burial will take place at Jonesboro Memorial Park Cemetery.

Serving as active pallbearers are Ron Jackson, Roger Moore, Bob Statton, Jim Faryewicz, Barry Jackson, Scott Jackson, and Conner Jackson. Honorary pallbearers include Jimmy Faryewicz, Valerie York, Chris Carroll, Wendy Fancher, Sandra & Gary Beasley’s Sunday School Class, and Eddie's past football teams.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Flo and Phil Jones Hospice House, The Assistant Fund, UAMS Movement Disorders, Walnut Street Baptist Church or the charity of your choice.

Online guestbook: www.emersonfuneralhome.com