Stephen "Steve" Barry Mitchell

July 16, 1949-July 4, 2026

With deep sadness, we announce the passing of Stephen "Steve" Barry Mitchell, 76, of Smiths Station, Alabama, on July 4, 2026.

Born on July 16, 1949, in Summerville, Georgia, Steve lived a life marked by determination, hard work, and a deep love for his family and friends. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy for four years, specializing in woodworking. After completing his military service, he spent 38 years as an auto machinist, where he had the privilege of working alongside his lifelong friends Larry "Bubba" Scarbrough and Billy Motos. This career perfectly aligned with his passion for cars and trucks; one of his proudest accomplishments was building his cherished Chevelle Malibu SS from the ground up with Bubba.

When Steve wasn't at work, you could find him tinkering in his shop, working under the hood of a car, tending to the yard, or enjoying time on the back porch. He loved the outdoors and had a special love for the Flint River, where he made many treasured memories camping with his wife, Jackie, and their close friends: Larry, Cooper, Mike, Anne, Shannon, Oop, Michael Wayne, and Rusty. He also enjoyed music, and built an impressive vinyl record collection over the years.

Above all else, Steve loved his family and friends deeply. Some of his greatest joys came from simply being together and reminiscing about years gone by. He never missed an opportunity to pull out old photo albums, share stories, or show his grandchildren and great-grandchildren things he had built, collected, or been given over the years. He loved remembering the moments that made life special and reliving them with the people he loved most.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 52 years, Jackie Mitchell; his daughter, Jennifer Stovall Rucker (Marcus) of Geneva, Georgia; his grandchildren, Melanie Hilsinger (Chris) of Columbus, Georgia, Aaron Mann (Tiffany) of Valley, Alabama, and Carson Lawler (Jason) of Beulah, Alabama; and his beloved great-grandchildren: Noah, Corbin, and Ezra Hilsinger; Hunter, Ryder, Jaxon, Carter, and Leeland Lawler; Jesse and Waylon Lawler, and Maximus and Bobby Smith.

He is also survived by his sisters, Rhonda Morris (Wayne), Janice Kight, Bobby Jo Garner (Terry), and Tammy Potter (Tim), along with many cherished nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Steve was preceded in death by his mother, Hellene Billeck; his great-grandson, Marion Hilsinger; his sister, Kimberly Mayhand; and his lifelong friend, Larry "Bubba" Scarbrough, who was like a brother to him.

In accordance with Steve's wishes, no formal services will be held.

Steve wasn't a man who sought the spotlight. He simply worked hard, cared for the people he loved, and found joy in the things that mattered most to him. The memories he created, the lessons he passed along, and the love he had for his family will remain long after his passing. He will be deeply missed, fondly remembered, and forever loved.