William E Mitchell

William Elbert Mitchell of Maryland Road of Plattsburgh New York entered into eternal rest on July 11th 2011 at CVPH Medical Center in Plattsburgh, New York. Mr. Mitchell was married for 57 years to Katherine Edwards with the marriage producing two sons. He is survived by sons, Ronald Mitchell (Gloria) of Highlands Ranch, Colorado and Michael Mitchell of Middletown, New York, grandsons Keith Mitchell (Leah) and Nicholas Mitchell, sisters Joyce Woodson and Annie Jones, 3 nephews, 2 nieces (1 niece preceded him in death), 6 grandnephews and 2 grandnieces, many cousins and friends who loved him. Mr. Mitchell was born on February 27, 1928 in Sessums, Mississippi to George and Anne Lee Mitchell. He was raised in the city of St. Louis, Missouri and graduated with distinction from Charles Sumner High in 1946. He graduated from the United States Merchant Marine Academy in 1952 and went on to serve as a commissioned officer in United States Navy. Mr. Mitchell served in the navy as a navigator onboard the aircraft carrier USS Wasp (CC 18) and was honorably discharged from the Navy in 1956 and achieved the rank of lieutenant. Mr. Mitchell held several maritime related positions during his work career and joined the Port Authority of New York & New Jersey in 1969. He held several executive positions during his 25 year stint with the Port Authority and retired in 1984 as the Director of Marketing. Mr. Mitchell was particularly proud of his work as a coordinator of the Parade of Tall Ships along the rivers of New York City during the nation's bi-centennial celebration in 1976. Plans are being finalized for a memorial service at The United States Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point in the fall of 2011. Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home, 29 Broad St., Plattsburgh, NY 12901, (518) 561-3980 Online condolences and memorial candles may be offered at www.brownfuneralhomeinc.com.