Virginia Mitchell

Virginia Dare Mitchell (Smith), 95, passed away peacefully on December 16, 2020 in Cleveland, TN, reuniting with her husband of 71 years just in time for Christmas. She leaves behind a legacy of commitment to her family and her church as a steadfast example of a Christian life, serving the role of Elder at First Christian Church in Cleveland.

Born to the late Claude and Ida Smith on August 21, 1925 in Saltville, VA, she was a 1942 graduate of Saltville High School and worked as a secretary for the Olin Corporation and Emory & Henry College. Virginia kept a lifelong dedication to the proper use of grammar and insisted that her grandchildren also pursue this standard.

Her true gift was hospitality, and it was in her role of Mother, Grandmother, and friend that she excelled the most. A brilliant cook, she fed countless family and friends every Sunday afternoon and relished the opportunities to host various church groups in her home. Her family will miss her wit and quick sense of humor, as well as her quiet strength, support and advice.

Preceded in death by her husband, R.J. Mitchell, Jr., “Granny” is survived by her daughter, Terri Olinger; son, Larry (Julie) Mitchell; grandchildren, Tonya Mullinax, Travis Olinger, Tyson Olinger, Tasha-Marie Olinger, Dustin Mitchell, Trayce Sluder; and nine great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to First Christian Church in Cleveland, TN. Due to Covid-19 restrictions, a family graveside service will be held at Chattanooga National Cemetery on Monday, December 28, 2020.