John Mitchum

John Wesley Mitchum, 90, of Concord, North Carolina, died peacefully at home on December 16, 2023. John was born on February 19, 1933, in Anson County, the oldest son of Nancy Edwards Mitchum and Robert Parvin Mitchum. He was married to the love of his life, Helen Thomas Mitchum, for 66 years. John was a disciple of Jesus Christ and lived his life serving others. He generously shared his gifts, talents, and time with those around him.

After graduating from Burnsville High School in 1951, John began his 35-year career with the Department of Transportation. He and his family moved to Concord in 1963. Shortly after arriving in Concord, the Mitchum family joined Epworth United Methodist Church. John was a devoted church member, and he faithfully served in many ministries and on various church committees. John especially looked forward to participating in the Wednesday morning men’s bible study and to working at Epworth’s hot dog sales on Thursdays.

John and Helen enjoyed living in the Oak Cliffs community for 47 years, where he served as President of the Homeowners Association for over 20 years. Following his retirement, John pursued his love of cars and owned Cabarrus Motor Company. He was also a lifetime member of Masons, Shriners, and Woodmen of the World.
John was preceded in death by his parents; beloved wife, Helen; son John “Johnny” Wesley Mitchum, Jr.; and brother, Robert “Bobby” Parvin Mitchum, Jr.

John is survived by his son and wife, Robert Edwin “Eddie” Mitchum and Louise Bynum Mitchum of Concord; daughter-in-law, Judy Mitchum of Sneads Ferry; granddaughter and husband, Kellie Mitchum Davis and Jeremy Davis; grandson and wife, William “Bill” and Leigh Long; and great- grandchildren, Adelaide Mitchum Davis and Radford Thomas Davis, who adored their “Papa John.” He is also survived by his siblings; sisters, Norene Mitchum Moore, Elizabeth Mitchum Poteat, and Brenda Mitchum Smith; brother and wife, James “Jim” Paul and Sherry Mitchum; and sister-in-law, Marilyn Mitchum. John was admired and loved by a host of nieces and nephews who will cherish his memory.

A memorial service to celebrate John’s life will be held at Epworth United Methodist Church at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, December 21, 2023, with Reverend Dennis Marshall officiating. The family will greet friends at the church from 9:45 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. prior to the memorial service. Burial will take place the day before at Fountain Hill United Methodist Church Cemetery, at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, December 20, 2023.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Epworth United Methodist Church, 1030 Burrage Road NE, Concord, NC 28025 or to Fountain Hill Cemetery Fund, 9528 Highway 218 East, Peachland, NC 28133.