She was born on March 3, 1921- one of thirteen children. As part of such a large family Jewell had numerous older siblings to take care of her and the younger ones were her playmates. Her idyllic childhood resulted in a confidence and drive that enabled her to graduate from high school at sixteen.
World War II interrupted her tranquil life in Mineral Bluff. Jewell moved to Maryville and became a wartime employee at Alcoa Aluminum. She was Tennessee's version of Rosie the Riveter. After the war ended she continued as a valued employee at Alcoa for more than thirty years.
Jewell had many interests during her lifetime. She loved to travel and managed to visit every state. Her church involvement was very important to her. During her years in Knoxville she was a faithful member of Gayland Heights Baptist Church and then Meridian Baptist Church. At Meridian she taught Sunday School, participated in the choir, and enjoyed activities in the Triple L Club.
Her dedication to UTK was obvious by the orange and white pompoms on display in the back window of her Cadillac. She proudly bought season tickets to the home football games for over forty years. One of her most memorable birthday parties took place in the stands at a Lady Vols basketball game when Pat Summit was coach.
During her retirement her love for UTK was extended to UTK Hospital where she served as a volunteer for over twenty years. Eventually she realized her failing health was going to end her service there. As with other disappointments in her life, she took it in stride and concentrated on not only the blessings she'd had, but also the remaining ones - many friends, devoted relatives of all ages, and a lively interest in the news of today.
She was preceded in death by her parents; first husband, Albert Luttrell; second husband, Leonard Mitchell; twelve siblings; and various nieces and nephews.
Immediate surviving family members are step-sons, Joe Mitchell (Jane) and Sam Mitchell as well as a step-granddaughter, Mandy Batten. Her influence as a family matriarch for countless relatives will not end with her death.
The family would like to express special thanks to UTK Hospice Services and Morning Pointe Assisted Living at Powell. Your kindness and efforts eased our burdens during this time of loss.
The family will receive friends Thursday, November 18, 2021 between the hours of noon until 2:00 pm in the chapel of Berry Funeral Home, 3704 Chapman Hwy, Knoxville with a funeral to follow officiated by Rev. Dana Fachman. Music will be led by Dennis Johnson. Family and friends will go in procession to Woodlawn Cemetery, 4500 Woodlawn Pike for an Interment Service. In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made to Meridian Baptist Church, 6513 Chapman Hwy, Knoxville, TN 37920.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.berryfuneralhome.com for the Mitchell family.
