Melissa Claudette Mitchell

Melissa “Missy” Mitchell, 54, of Asheville, NC died peacefully on December 20, 2022 at Care Partners Solace Center after a long illness. Her mother was by her side. She was born on January 6, 1968 and was a lifelong resident of Asheville. Missy graduated from A.C. Reynolds High School in 1986. She worked for 22 years at Blue Ridge Bone & Joint/Emerge Ortho, serving first on switchboard and later in medical coding. Prior to that Missy worked at Dillard’s and Woolworth’s.  

Missy was devoted to her family. She lovingly helped raise her niece and three nephews. During the last year of her life, one of her greatest joys was seeing her great niece Charlie in person and in pictures texted to her. In the final weeks of her life, Missy was determined to make it to Charlie’s one year birthday party in November. She had a front row seat as Charlie opened presents and ate cake. Missy was also determined to share Thanksgiving with her family as well. That afternoon was spent feasting, laughing, and reminiscing. 

Missy enjoyed simple things: trips to the beach, concerts, going to the movies, trying new restaurants, going out for coffee. She shared these experiences with John, the love of her life. Their devotion to one another was sweet and pure. 

Missy was a faithful daughter, checking in with her mother each day and making sure she had everything she needed. She was also a wonderful sister. During her illness, she spent a great deal of time with her brother, Bobby, as he cared for her. While much of that time was marked by hospital and doctor visits, there were also moments of laughter and joy. To each member of her family and all her friends, Missy was a bright and shining light. She had a sharp wit and a tender heart.

Missy was preceded in death by her father, Robert Eugene Mitchell Sr. She is survived by her life partner John Thomson, mother Constance Hyatt Mitchell, brother Bobby Mitchell, sister Jennifer Blankenship (Randy), sister April Nance (Chad), honorary sister Kim Fordham, niece Constance Kyle (Ryan), nephew Dusty Blankenship (Ellie), nephew Mitchell Nance, nephew Will Nance, and great niece Charlie Rose Blankenship.   

The family would like to thank the staff members of Solace and of Groce Funeral Home – Tunnel Rd for their compassionate care of Missy and her loved ones. 

A memorial service is planned for Saturday, January 14th at 12:00 at Haw Creek Commons, 315 Old Haw Creek Rd, Asheville, NC. Groce Funeral Home on Tunnel Road is assisting the family.