Mr. James “Terry” Mitchell, Sr., 87, of Lizana, Mississippi, passed away peacefully at his residence on Wednesday, April 29, 2026.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James Floren Mitchell “Jimmy” and Fannie Mae Mitchell, both of Gulfport, Mississippi.

Terry is survived by his devoted wife of 64 years, Sandra Hartfield Mitchell; his three children, Terry Mitchell, Jr. of Lizana (Melva Chiniche of Biloxi) Allison Mitchell Boggess (Bin) of Gulfport, and Scott Mitchell (Angela) of Lizana; five grandchildren, Trey Mitchell, Tyler Mitchell, Emily Boggess, Anna Claire Boggess, and Noah Dubuisson; and four great-grandchildren, Brooklyn and Jacksyn Mitchell, Adaline and Aiden Dubuisson. One brother, Travis Mitchell (Judy), Hattiesburg, MS, and one sister, Linda Voivedich (Jimmy), Athens, GA. As well as many nieces and nephews.

A proud graduate of St. Stanislaus in 1957, Terry went on to join the United States Marine Corps. Upon returning home, he attended the University of Southern Mississippi before beginning his career with M & M Beverage Company, a family-owned business. He later worked as a traveling salesman for Hiram Walker Distributing for ten years. Eventually, he returned to M & M Beverage Company, where he diligently managed the M & M Package Store in Gulfport until its closing.

Terry continued his career in public service with the City of Gulfport, overseeing Evergreen Cemetery, and later with the Harrison County Sand Beach Department. He concluded his 35 years of dedicated service as an Assistant Superintendent. Even in retirement, Terry remained active, working part-time at Fazzio’s Farm Center, where he enjoyed spending time with others, often sharing laughter and good-natured humor.

An avid outdoorsman, Terry found his greatest peace in the woods and on the water, spending countless happy hours hunting, fishing, and “piddling” on his Yanmar tractor. Known to many as “Whiskey Man” over the CB radio waves, he built lasting friendships and stories that will be told for years to come. He spent over 30 years at Sandy Creek Hunting Club in Lizana, where he became a familiar and cherished presence, and in time, its last surviving lifetime member. From racing pigeons to running bass boats, Terry’s love of speed and competition eventually carried him into high-speed outboard drag boat racing, where he found true joy and excitement. Terry was also an active member of the Gulfport Jaycees and the Knights of Columbus 4th Degree.

Terry leaves behind a legacy of kindness, humor, and connection. He never met a stranger and had a remarkable ability to remember everyone he encountered, often giving them unique nicknames—sometimes surprising them later with small, thoughtful gifts, like a bunch of bananas.

Visitation will be held at St. Ann Catholic Church, 23529 MS HWY 53, Gulfport, MS 39503, Monday, May 4, 2026, from 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at the church beginning at 2:00 PM. Burial will take place in Finley Cemetery.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to everyone who offered support during the past few weeks. Special thanks are given to the compassionate staff at Encompass Rehabilitation, especially Arian Manger and Randy Hulsey, and to St. Joseph Hospice, particularly Nurse Britney Holly, for their care and support during this difficult time.

In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association in memory of Mr. James “Terry” Mitchell, Sr.

**Reception directly following Christian Burial at St. Ann’s Catholic Church Reception Hall.

Riemann Family Funeral Home, Gulfport, is honored to serve the Mitchell family during this difficult time.