James Ferrell

James “Mitch” Ferrell, of Hazlehurst, was born on Nov. 24, 1945, in Oxford and went to his heavenly home on May 15, 2026. He loved Jesus, his family, and his church. Mitch never met a stranger and always found something in common with everyone he met.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Baker and Frances Jones Ferrell, and brothers, Emuel Ferrell and Mike Ferrell.

He grew up as a young boy in Oxford and eventfully ended up in Hattiesburg, where he graduated from the University of Southern Mississippi and met the love of his life, Linda.

After graduation, he worked in the propane industry in Mississippi and Texas and became the director of the LC Gas Division for the State of Mississippi before retiring in 2007.

He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Linda Owens Ferrell; daughter, Shanda Ferrell Chrestman (Darrell); son, David Emuel Ferrell (Maegan); six grandchildren, Jeremy Chrestman (Whitney), Josh Chrestman (Kendall), Logan Ferrell, Meridian Ferrell, Tucker Ferrell, Owen Ferrell; and two great-grandchildren, Opal and James Chrestman.

Mitch enjoyed a wide range of interests throughout his life. He loved sports, especially golf, and took great pride in raising Arabian horses. He also had a natural gift for storytelling, often poking fun at himself, and his humor brought joy and laughter to those around him. In his later years, he especially treasured time with family, whether playing cards and dominos or watching sports on television.

A celebration of life service will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, June 11, at the First Presbyterian Church, Hazlehurst, with visitation from 10 a.m. until the service.

Memorials may be made to First Presbyterian Church, Hazlehurst.