

Lonzo was born on September 7, 1935, in Leslie County, Kentucky, to the late Burchell and Lillie Mitchell. He married the love of his life, Margaret Ann Mitchell, on December 3, 1959.
Lonzo was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Margaret Ann Mitchell, in 2018, and his daughter, Connie Mitchell, in 2021.
He is lovingly survived by his children, Ricky Mitchell, Lisa (Mark) Fernald, and David (Sheila) Mitchell. He was a proud and devoted grandfather to Jennifer McElroy, Timothy (Hillary) Stover II, Rebekah Mitchell, Ashley (Chad) McLees, Ricky Mitchell, Jonathan (Miriah) Mitchell, Jared (Laura) Mitchell, and Shelby Mitchell. His family continued to grow through 20 cherished great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren, all of whom brought him immense joy. He is also survived by his brother, James (Sue) Mitchell, along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, dear friends, and brothers and sisters in Christ.
For more than 60 years, Lonzo faithfully answered God’s call to preach the Gospel, and for more than 50 years, he served as a pastor. His life’s mission was to share the message of Jesus Christ and faithfully serve the Lord wherever He called him. Through his ministry, he touched countless lives with compassion, wisdom, and steadfast faith. At the time of his passing, he was a faithful member of Miamisburg Full Gospel Tabernacle, where he continued to worship and encourage others.
Lonzo was also a proud veteran of the United States Air Force. He deeply loved his country and was grateful for the opportunity to serve. His patriotism remained a defining part of his life, and he took great pride in both his military service and the freedoms he cherished.
Following his military service, Lonzo worked as a heavy equipment operator for the City of Dayton Water Department. He was known for his strong work ethic, dependability, and dedication throughout his career.
Outside of his work and ministry, Lonzo found great joy in God’s creation. He loved hunting, hiking, reading, and golfing. Whether exploring the outdoors or traveling to new places, he embraced every opportunity to experience the beauty of the world around him. Above all, he treasured time spent with his family and found his greatest fulfillment in serving the Lord.
Those who knew Lonzo will remember his unwavering faith, humble spirit, quiet strength, and genuine love for others. His life was a testament to faithful service, and his influence will continue to be felt through the lives he touched, the sermons he preached, and the family he loved so dearly.
A verse that perfectly reflects Lonzo’s life is one he cherished:
“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.”
2 Timothy 4:7–8 (King James Version)
Though he will be deeply missed, his family rejoices in the assurance that he has finished his earthly race and entered into the presence of his Savior, whom he faithfully served throughout his life.
Funeral arrangements are as follows: Visitation will be held on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. The funeral service will take place on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. Both the visitation and funeral service will be held at Spaulding Road Church of God, 1658 Spaulding Road, Dayton, Ohio. The service will be officiated by Rev. Jared Mitchell.
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