David Paul Mitchell

Paul attended Putnam City Elementary School and Jones Elementary and High School in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, where he lettered in both baseball and basketball. Later, he graduated from Classen High School in Oklahoma City in 1952. After completing the pre-medical program at Central State University in Edmond, Oklahoma, he earned his medical degree from the University of Tennessee College of Medicine in Memphis, Tennessee in May 1960.

On September 8, 1956, Paul married the love of his life, Shirley Reisman, at the Mustang Methodist Church in Mustang, Oklahoma. Paul often credited Shirley for her unwavering support during his years in medical school and in private practice, where she worked tirelessly to help provide income and tuition for their young family. Together they built a loving family and shared nearly 70 years of marriage.

Paul and Shirley were blessed with a four children, nine grandchildren, one great-grandchild: Paul’s son, Scott (Jenny) Mitchell, his grandchildren, Chelsea (Colton) Herrod, Easton (Allie) Mitchell, his great-grandchild, Gwendolen Herrod; Paul’s daughter, Julie Blythe, Alex (Reagan) Blythe, and Audrey (Ryan) Graf; Paul’s son, Paul (Kate) Mitchell, his grandchildren, Parker (Lauryn) Mitchell, Colton (Kayley) Mitchell, Mason (Megan) Mitchell; Paul's daughter, Shelley (Scott) Burkitt, and his grandchildren, Jack Burkitt, and Sam Burkitt.

Following medical school, Paul served his country in the U.S. Army. He underwent his medical training in San Antonio, Texas and Ft. Dix, New Jersey. Later, he served two years of active service at Ft. Irwin, California as a Captain and Medical Officer. He received an Honorable Discharge in 1965 before returning to Oklahoma.

In August 1965, Paul began his private medical practice in Madill, Oklahoma, where he served the community for ten years. In 1975, he moved his practice to Oklahoma City and continued caring for patients there until his retirement in 2000. He practiced at Deaconess, Mercy, and Integris Hospitals. During his medical career, he served as Chief of Staff at Deaconess Hospital in 1980, 1981, and 1990.

After retirement, Paul and Shirley moved to Texas where they spent many years with close friends and family. Paul enjoyed the annual lake trips, and he wished for his ashes to be spread on the water and near the shores of Sandy Beach, Lake Texoma, where he “...had so much fun with friends and family.” (Paul Mitchell, April 17, 2026).

Paul will be remembered for his dedication to medicine, his service to others, his devotion to family, and the lasting impact he made on countless lives. He leaves behind a legacy of compassion, integrity, and love that will continue through his family and all who knew him.

A Memorial Service will be held at Advantage Funeral & Cremation Services, 7720 South Pennsylvania Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73159, US, on October 24, 2026, from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm.