MISSISSIPPI LEGISLATURE

2012 Regular Session

To: Rules

By: Representatives Ellis, Beckett, Chism, Espy, Gibbs, Harrison, Hood, Smith (39th), Williams-Barnes

House Resolution 8

A RESOLUTION COMMENDING THE LIFE OF DEVIN RAJON MITCHELL OF STARKVILLE, MISSISSIPPI, AND EXTENDING DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO HIS FAMILY AND FRIENDS UPON HIS PASSING.

     WHEREAS, Devin Rajon Mitchell, born August 23, 1995, to Aubrey and Myrtle Mitchell of Starkville, Mississippi, departed this earthly life on Sunday, January 1, 2012, at the age of 16 years, to enter into eternal rest with his Heavenly Father, rendering great sorrow and loss to his family and friends; and

     WHEREAS, while his life upon this earth was short-lived, it nevertheless has a far-reaching impact upon the lives of all who personally knew him and were afforded the opportunity to make his acquaintance; and

     WHEREAS, an individual possessing all the qualities for a promising future of great success, Devin became an exceptional student athlete at Starkville High School in Starkville by sharpening and perfecting his athletic abilities; and

     WHEREAS, Devin was devoted to his Christian faith, he was a faithful and active member of Saint Paul United Methodist Church in West Point, Mississippi, active in the teaching ministries of the church, faithful in serving as an usher and choir member, and his dedication to the Youth Ministry allowed him the opportunity to serve as a youth delegate to the church's district conference; and

     WHEREAS, Devin was an outstanding athlete, able to adapt to any position on the football field, an excellent center fielder for the baseball team, and a swift runner on the track team; and

     WHEREAS, while his exceptional athletic abilities were numerous, Devin also was committed and steadfast to his academics and was an honor roll student; and

     WHEREAS, having a contagious smile, Devin was well-known and liked within his community, and his sudden passing marks the expiration of a life of great potential before its benefit could be shared with the world; and

     WHEREAS, though he has transitioned to a land of great reward, the legacy of his memory will continue to be cherished by his loving survivors, including:  his parents, Aubrey and Myrtle Mitchell; brothers, Damien and Jeterrod; sisters, Nicole and Aubreonna; grandmothers, Earceal Mitchell, Ella Logan and Earline Logan; three nephews and two nieces; and a host of aunts, uncles, relatives and friends; and

     WHEREAS, it is the policy of the House of Representatives to commend the life of such a young individual whose life was prematurely shortened, but had lasting effect on those he touched, as we remind the family that, "For every thing there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven," as prophetically written in Ecclesiastes 3:1:

     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, That we do hereby commend the life of Devin Rajon Mitchell and express deepest sympathy to his family and friends upon his passing.

     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be furnished to the family of Mr. Devin Rajon Mitchell and to the members of the Capitol Press Corps.