Gary L. 'Papa Gary' Mitchell, 73, of Waco, passed away Sunday, January 24, 2021. Graveside service will be 10:00 a.m. Friday, January 29, 2021 at Oakwood Cemetery with Father Joe Gelaney officiating. Visitation will be from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Thursday, January 28, at the funeral home.

Gary was born July 21, 1947 to Lenis and Willie (Isaacs) Mitchell in Lubbock, Texas. He was a longtime resident of Waco. Gary graduated from Richfield High School in 1965. He served his country during the Vietnam War as a seaman in the United States Navy from 1966-1970. He married the love of his life, Irene Prnka in 1970 in Waco. They celebrated 34 years together. Gary enjoyed life to the fullest, being with his family and especially his grandson. He was preceded in death by his, parents, wife, Irene Mitchell, sister, Jan Johnson.

Survivors include his son, Brian Mitchell and wife, Monica of Robinson; grandson, Aidan Mitchell of Robinson; sister, Becky Vann of Washington; sister-in-law, Georgia Sosebee of Lorena; numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.