Senate Resolution No. 2801

BY: Senator PARKER

MOURNING the death of James Mitchell,
distinguished citizen and devoted member of his
community

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to pay tribute to
citizens of the State of New York whose lifework and civic endeavor
served to enhance the quality of life in their communities and the great
State of New York; and

WHEREAS, James Mitchell of New York, New York, died on January 5,
2020, at the age of 90; and

WHEREAS, Born on July 22, 1929, in Edisto Island, South Carolina,
James Mitchell was the youngest child of the late Issac and Evelana
Mitchell; and

WHEREAS, A graduate of Burke High School in Charleston, South
Carolina, James Mitchell went on to marry Thelma Mitchell and together
they migrated to New York, where they raised their four daughters; and

WHEREAS, Affectionally known as "Mitch The Barber", James Mitchell
worked at the Playboy Barber Shop where he became Sugar Ray Robinson's
personal stylist; while touring with him, he had the pleasure of styling
some of the greats, including Terry King, Duke Ellington, Nat King Cole,
Young Blood (Ali), the Coasters, Curtis Ousley (King Curtis), Jackie
Wilson, Eartha Kitt, Sammy Davis Jr., and many more; and

WHEREAS, Distinguishing himself in his profession and by his sincere
dedication and substantial contribution to the welfare of his community,
James Mitchell has left a lasting legacy on his loved ones as well as
his community; and

WHEREAS, In addition to his parents, James Mitchell is predeceased
by; three sisters, Florence, Edith, and Jamie; his oldest daughter,
Yvonne; and his grandson, David; he is survived by his loving wife,
Thelma; his children, Gail (Bradford), Jacqueline, and Miriam; his
grandchildren, Ronnie Jr. (Ebony), Ieshaw, Madyson (Joseph), Ryan, and
Terrence; and great-grandchildren, Raven and Robbie III; and

WHEREAS, Armed with a humanistic spirit and imbued with a sense of
compassion, James Mitchell leaves behind a legacy which will long endure
the passage of time and will remain as a comforting memory to all he
served and befriended; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
pay tribute to James Mitchell whose lifework and civic endeavor served
to enhance the quality of life in his community and the great State of
New York; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the family of James Mitchell.