Billy J. Mitchell Jr.

In Loving Memory of Billy J. Mitchell Jr.
1954 - 2025
Obituary for Billy J. Mitchell Jr.
July 16, 1954 – March 12, 2025
With hearts heavy yet filled with gratitude for a life well-lived, we announce the passing of Billy J. Mitchell Jr., who departed this world on March 12, 2025, in Mansfield, Texas. A man of unwavering faith, devotion, and adventure, Billy was a loving partner, a dedicated father and grandfather, a proud veteran, and a cherished friend to many. His was a life enriched by love, family, service, and an endless curiosity for the world around him.
Born on July 16, 1954, in Fort Worth, Texas, to Billy J. Mitchell and Helen Ruth Youngblood-Mitchell, Billy's early years were rooted in the warmth of a loving home. Though Texas was his birthplace, his journey took him west to San Diego, California, where he grew up surrounded by the ocean breeze and the steady guidance of his devoted parents. It was there that he came of age, nurtured by the values of hard work, perseverance, and the deep faith instilled in him from childhood. Raised in the Baptist faith, Billy carried these spiritual principles throughout his life, using them as a foundation to build his character, his relationships, and his sense of purpose.
Upon graduating from high school in California, Billy answered a higher calling to serve his country and joined the United States Air Force. This chapter of his life would become one of his proudest accomplishments. As a loadmaster, Billy's role was both technical and daring-loading aircraft with precision and, as he often liked to say with a twinkle in his eye, "pushing people out of planes." He loved the thrill of his work, the camaraderie of his fellow airmen, and the immense pride that came with serving his nation. His time in the Air Force shaped him into a man of discipline, resilience, and profound patriotism-qualities he carried with him throughout his life.
After his military service, Billy embarked on a diverse and fulfilling career. His skillset was vast, his work ethic unmatched. He worked at General Dynamics, applied his expertise as a diesel mechanic and truck driver, and later took on leadership roles as a warehouse manager. However, it was his 27-year tenure with Pier 1 as a warehouse manager that truly defined his professional legacy. He was known for his meticulous organization, his ability to inspire his team, and his unwavering commitment to excellence. No matter what path he pursued, Billy poured his heart into his work, earning the admiration of colleagues and friends alike.
In 2021, fate intervened in the most beautiful way, bringing Billy and Glenna Batchelor together. Both having lost their spouses, they found solace, understanding, and ultimately, profound love in each other. Their connection was instantaneous-a meeting of kindred spirits who complemented one another in every way. Glenna would often say, with a smile, that Billy made her talk, and she made him nice. It was a playful reflection of the way they enriched each other's lives, helping one another heal and grow. Their bond was strengthened by their shared passion for adventure, particularly their love of riding their Spyder trykes. As devoted members of the US Spyder Ryders-North Texas, they crisscrossed the country together, embracing the open road, the wind in their faces, and the fellowship of their beloved biker family. For Billy, those rides weren't just about the miles-they were about freedom, companionship, and the sheer joy of experiencing life to the fullest.
Billy was a collector at heart, a man with an eye for history and an appreciation for the treasures of the past. He loved coins, pocket watches, and countless other artifacts that spoke to his curiosity and passion for preserving memories. But more than any collection, Billy cherished his family above all else. His greatest joy came from being "Paw Paw" to his grandchildren, who were the light of his life. Whether sharing stories, teaching lessons, or simply enjoying their laughter, Billy found his truest happiness in the love of his family.
He was also a lover of technology and a devoted gamer, never losing his youthful spirit or enthusiasm for play. Whether traveling to new places, bonding with his biker family, or enjoying the simple pleasure of a video game, Billy approached every moment with a sense of wonder and excitement. And of course, his beloved fur babies, Josie and Rascal were never far from his side, offering him loyal companionship and unconditional love.
Billy leaves behind a legacy of love, adventure, and unwavering loyalty. He is survived by his devoted partner and companion, Glenna Batchelor; his beloved children, Amber Mitchell and her husband Chad Pittman, Crystal Mitchell, Melissa Massey and her husband Donald, and Don Baird; his adored grandchildren, Wade, Dominic, and Waylon; his precious great-grandchild, Nora; his siblings, Brenda Kay, Ginger, and Seth; his father, Billy J. Mitchell; his Air Force brother, Ron Myers; and a host of extended family, dear friends, and fellow riders who will carry his memory forward.
He is now reunited in eternal peace with those who went before him-his beloved wife, Gwen; his cherished daughters, Tracy and Sherry; his mother, Helen Ruth Youngblood-Mitchell; his brother, Tony; and his loving Lab, Maggie. While his departure leaves a void that cannot be filled, his spirit will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.
A celebration of Billy's extraordinary life will be held at Roberts Martinez Funeral Chapel in Haltom City on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, at 10 AM. Friends, family, and fellow riders are invited to gather and honor the man who touched so many lives with his kindness, humor, and unwavering strength.
Billy J. Mitchell Jr. was a man who lived boldly, loved fiercely, and left an indelible mark on the world. His story does not end here-it continues in the memories of those who will forever hold him dear. Ride on, Billy. Your journey isn't over, just onto the next great adventure.
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