William Walter (Billy) Mitchell, surrounded by his loving family, passed away on September 5. Born in Amarillo on March 25, 1939, Billy was a devoted partner, father, grandfather, and friend.

From an early age, Billy dedicated his life to training horses. He left home at an early age to focus on learning the art of breaking young horses. He started his rodeo career riding barback and later transitioned to calf roping before being drafted into the US Army. During his service, he was a Nuclear Launch Officer and a Sergeant First Class, retiring in 1978. Despite his administrative duties, he never strayed too far

from horses. Billy was honored to train Cavalry horses at Fort Sill and teach many young soldiers the skills he had mastered.

After his military service, he returned to Texas and began making bits and training cutting horses with Bill Freeman. His passion for horses and the rodeo life was passed down to his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Billy is survived by his partner, Carol Lewis; his children, Luann Mitchell, Brenda, and Eurdist Rinehart, Amber and Bryan Jones, and Shawn Mitchell; his four grandchildren, Stephanie Burnside, Kassidy Lovell, Steven Warren, and Chance Jones; and his brothers, Herman Mitchell Jr., Royce Mitchell, and Gary Mitchell. He is preceded in death by his parents, Geneva Bishop Mitchell and Herman Mitchell, his sister, Linda Ann Mitchell, and his grandson, William Warren.

A celebration of life will be announced at a later date. Billy’s warmth, generosity, and love for his family will be forever remembered.

Memorial donations may be made to St. Jude’s Children Hospital, Tunnel of Towers, or a charity of your choice in Billy’s name.