Stewart Mitchell Paxton

Mitch's passion for life was evident in his love for Megan, wife of twenty-seven years, and the travels they enjoyed throughout the South they both loved. There is not enough room here to convey that bond, from Mitch opening his arms to embrace her son when they married, to Megan's compassion for Mitch until the end of his life.

Together they were blessed to have Mitch's son Shane, his wife Julie, and Mitch's granddaughter, Samantha, sharing in the blessings of everyday life and it's milestones, savoring meals and holidays, joys and tears. Mitch's two brother's, Greg and Ben, though separated by miles, remained close, not just as brothers, but as true friends. To Greg and his husband Matt, Mitch was both sibling and ally. To Ben, his wife Wendy, and their children, Gabe and Olivia, Mitch will always be the Uncle Mitchie they cherished as kids, even as they enter adulthood more fully grasping Mitch's wit, humor, satire, and intellect - just as those who knew Mitch well always will.

Mitch's beloved Aunt Sandra became like a mother after Phyllis's passing, nurturing and laughing with Mitch until the very last day; his cousins, Kim and Tracy, Sandra's girls, also anchored to the childhood memories of camping trips and Mitch's antics, celebrating that joy with their own families now. In Mitch, Tracy's son Jacob saw more than a cousin, but a guide and mentor as he came of age.

Just like family, a small circle of friends shared travels and food with Mitch and Megan in recent years, savoring dinners and weekend outings that went beyond simply being foodies, and which forged the lasting friendship they so revered. A friendship which now continues to sustain Megan in the coming days, months, and years. Mitch's faith sustained him, close friends empowered him, and the students he taught - at Jones College - affirmed a well of talent and insight that never ran dry, continuing still as those he taught and worked with, now take Mitch with them in their careers.

There are many other family and friends that could fill volumes here, matched only by the wealth of creative talent in his writings, paintings, and transformative touch in everything he put his hands on. Mitch will be deeply missed.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that any memorial bequests be made to the Wounded Warrior Project.

A Celebration of Mitch’s life will be held for family and friends, Saturday, May 28, 11am at St Mark’s Episcopal Church. 4129 Oxford Ave, Jacksonville, FL 32210.

Arrangements under the direction of Hardage-Giddens Funeral Home, 729 S. Edgewood Avenue Jacksonville, FL. 32205 (904) 388-2711.