STUART, Va. — James Randolph Mitchell Jr., affectionately known to all as “Jimi,” passed away on Sunday, August 2, 2026, at Blue Ridge Therapy Connection in Stuart, Virginia, at the age of 78. Born to the late Randolph Mitchell and Sue Hylton Mitchell, Jimi lived a life defined by warmth, creativity, and quiet resilience. He shared 60 devoted years with his wife, Mary Lee Whitten Mitchell, with whom he built a home and family centered on deep love, mutual respect, and outdoor adventure.
A Legacy in Art Education, Fairy Stone State Park, and Costa Rica
Jimi earned degrees in Art Education from Radford University and East Carolina University, going on to dedicate his career to teaching elementary school art. Known for his patience, humor, and gift for inspiring young minds, he made every student feel valued and artistic. Beyond the classroom, Jimi and Mary Lee operated M&J Riding Stables at Fairy Stone State Park for eight summers. Following his retirement, the couple embarked on a 12-year adventure living in Puntarenas, Costa Rica, before returning full-time to their beloved Stuart farm, which they had owned since 1970.
Survived by Devoted Family and Lasting Community Impact
In addition to his wife, Mary Lee, Jimi was a devoted father to his son, Matthew Whitten Mitchell; a loving grandfather to Karathena Fallon, Genevieve Skye, Clariti Alei, and Maisley Grace; and a proud great-grandfather to Kolten McCoy Preston. He was preceded in death by his sister, Nancy Lindsey, and his parents. Jimi’s gentle nature, creative spark, and ability to meet both life’s joys and challenges with grace will be deeply missed by his family, former students, and friends throughout Patrick County and beyond.
