John Christopher Mitchell

He was pre-deceased by his parents, James and Faye Mitchell. He is survived by his former spouse, Elecia Mitchell of Orlando, Florida; 3 children, daughter, Ashley Cooper (Nicholas) of Leesburg, Florida; son John Mitchell Jr. of Huntersville, North Carolina; and daughter Emilie Mitchell of Orlando, Florida; 2 grandchildren, Bradley and Olivia Cooper; and siblings Thom Mitchell of Mount Krisco, New York; Nan Green (Robert) of Dunwoody, Georgia; and Jane Emily Crosswhite (Mark) of Mountain Brook, Alabama.

John was born on January 25, 1956 in Birmingham Alabama. He graduated from Vestavia Hills High School. Afterwards, he attended The University of Alabama where he was a member of Delta Chi Fraternity and the men’s Cross Country and Track and Field Programs. John then transferred to Mississippi State University and attained his Bachelor of Architecture, just like his father. Upon graduation, John worked as an architect for John Portman & Associates and The Walt Disney Company. John worked for Disney for over 25 years, becoming Manager of Environmental Design and Engineering at Walt Disney Imagineering. His list of projects is extensive, including the opening of Disneyland Paris, Sunset Boulevard, Tower of Terror, Mission Space, Soarin’, Test Track, Star Tours, and Innoventions, just to name a few.

John was a kind and generous man who was quick with a joke. He enjoyed fellowship with family and friends. He was an avid reader who loved travelling. One of his favorite destinations was Camp Minnehaha, where he created lasting memories with lifelong friends. John was a member of Greeneway Church for more than 20 years, servings in numerous roles, including Deacon, Men’s Ministry Leader and Board of Directors.

A memorial service will be held on Tuesday June 8th at 2:00 pm at Greeneway Church located at 3400 Hunter’s Creek Boulevard in Orlando with a reception to follow. Flowers and/or memorial contributions to Greenway Church or The Parkinson’s Foundation in his name are equally welcome. John is under the care of Family Funeral Care.