John Lewis Mitchell

With thoughts of bowling one more game and cruising the Caribbean Sea, our beloved uncle, stepfather, brother and friend left this world on May 29, 2022. He left it a better place than to which he arrived by being a “good guy.” Born on September 2, 1959, beneath the palm trees of Los Angeles, John Lewis Mitchell was welcomed into the world by Wilda and Alex Mitchell. He attended Washington High School in South Central L.A. with his nieces. After graduating in 1977, John began his 36-year career of public service. He joined the U.S. Coast Guard on August 22, 1978. He served four years at Mare Island in Vallejo, California. Then he joined the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department on December 8, 1982, as a member of LASD Class #214. In West Hollywood, John quickly became a valued member of the Sheriff’s family. He was given the affectionate nickname “Scoop” because he always had the latest news on what was happening and loved chatting about it. For this, John will always be remembered for his storytelling and smile. During his time with the Sheriff’s, he was honored as “Traffic Deputy of the Year” and worked Hall of Justice Jail in downtown L.A. He retired on March 20, 2015, with 32 years of service, close friendships and cherished memories. Even in retirement, John maintained a strong bond with his Sheriff’s family by organizing regular meetups for retired deputies. He also regularly met up with his bowling buddies. John was a passionate bowler for more than 30 years. On Thursdays, he looked forward to bowling with friends; he frequently competed in tournaments in Las Vegas. John also loved getting tattoos, watching movies, listening to music and having long conversations with new and old friends. For 62 years, John lived his life with gusto and the YOLO (Carpe diem) spirit. He will be missed by nieces, nephews, a stepson, a sister-in-law, friends, fellow deputies, bowling buddies, and community members.