Joy Belle Mitchell

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Joy Belle Mitchell, who departed this world on October 18, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Born on January 23, 1936, in the serene surroundings of Wright County, Missouri, Joy was a beacon of love, warmth, and kindness throughout her life. Joy was the cherished daughter of Laura (Lathrom) and Echo Atkinson. She grew up with a deep appreciation for family values, which she carried with her throughout her life. She graduated from Mountain Grove High School, setting the foundation for a life dedicated to nurturing and caring for her family. In a beautiful union of love, Joy married Shelby Dean Mitchell, with whom she shared many joyful years until his passing. Together, they built a family that cherished the values of love, compassion, and togetherness. Joy was a devoted homemaker, creating a warm and welcoming home filled with laughter and love. She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Dean, her parents, and her dear son, Chris Mitchell. Joy leaves behind a legacy of love through her surviving family members: her children, Shelby (Daina) Mitchell, and Randal (Melinda) Mitchell, both of Springfield, MO, and Cree (Brad) Bowers of Pueblo, CO. Her grandchildren, Brian Mitchell and Ashley (Brian) Elsworth, along with her great-grandchildren, Caleb, Elizabeth, Raylan, Dayson, and Baylor, were the light of her life. Joy is also survived by her siblings, Judy Lancaster and Jack Atkinson, who will deeply miss her loving presence. A woman of remarkable talents, Joy was known for her exquisite sewing skills and was renowned for her culinary delights that brought family and friends together. Her passion for gardening was evident in the vibrant blooms of her favorite flowers—hydrangeas, lilacs, and hibiscus—that adorned her garden, a reflection of the beauty she brought into the world. The family will honor Joy's life with a service on October 23, 2026, at 1:00 PM at Greenlawn North, located at 3600 N National Ave, Springfield, MO 65803. Friends and family are invited to gather in remembrance and celebration of a life well-lived. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to a charity of your choice, in memory of Joy, as a tribute to her generous spirit and enduring legacy. Joy Belle Mitchell will be remembered for her unwavering love, her gentle spirit, and the joy she brought to all who were fortunate to know her. She leaves behind a tapestry of cherished memories that will forever remain in the hearts of her loved ones.