Lee Edward Mitchell, son of Henrietta Gilley and the late Leon Mitchell, was born in Tampa, Florida on July 30, 1963.  He was reared in the loving home of the late Joseph Hill, Sr. and Mary Crawford Hill.

Throughout his school years, he was an inquisitive young man with a zeal of learning; was actively involved in various student organizations and activities;  and graduated from Sumter County High School in Americus, Georgia in 1981.  At an early age, Lee accepted the Lord as his personal Savior and remained steadfast in his daily walk.

Believing strongly in loyalty and commitment to his country, Lee enlisted in the United States Army where he served 18 years with distinction.  While stationed at various military installations, he received numerous commendations and awards as he advanced in the military ranks.  At the close of his tours of duty, he received an honorable discharge and, thereafter, transitioned to  a career as a machine operator with Rebar Company in Tampa, Florida.

Lee was not only a brave and loyal soldier, but a loving son, father, and doting grandfather as well.  He was profoundly devoted to his family and friends, loved the people in his life with heartfelt sincerity, and was always willing to lend a helping hand.  Lee had a very welcoming spirit and the strong bonds of friendship that he developed through the years will forever be remembered.

On Tuesday, November 16, 2021, Lee quietly transitioned from this earthly life to eternal rest and peace with the Lord.  In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by Joseph Hill, Sr., Mary C. Hill, and his grandparents, Henry and Mary Crawford.

Loving memories will forever be cherished by his daughters, Dominique Livingston of Tampa, FL, Monica Mitchell of Atlanta, GA, and Tayonna Mingo of Columbus, GA; his mother, Henrietta Gilley of Tampa, FL; siblings, Emma Sue (S.T.) Jenkins and Pearlie Hill of Americus, GA, Annie Berry, Willie Jo Mercer, and Janie Roberts all of Leslie, GA, Nikki  Gilley of Atlanta, GA, and Sherly Mitchell of Tampa, FL; aunts and uncles, Delores Argo of Ypsilanti, MI, Kris King, Deborah Gordon, William Crawford, Bruce Crawford, and John Crawford all of Tampa, FL, and James (Betty) Townsell of Albany, GA; great aunt, Vera Barnett of Pittsburg, PA; grandchildren, Aniya, Ry'cardo, Daries, Ar'rhianna, Kennedy, Mason, Amadeus, Apollo, and London; goddaughter, Shereka;  his loving companion, Nikki Huffman of Tampa, FL; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.