Emmitt Austin Mitchell
Emmitt Austin Mitchell, 80, of Concord, Virginia, passed away peacefully May 11,2026 surrounded by the love of his family. Born on June 1, 1945, in Stone Mountain, Virginia. Emmitt lived a life rooted in faith, hard work, devotion to family, and kindness toward others.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Charlie and Cosie Mitchell; his brother, Thurman Mitchell; and his sister, Patricia Mitchell.
Emmitt is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 59 years, Belinda Kraatz Mitchell, whom he loved faithfully and wholeheartedly throughout their life together. Their marriage was a beautiful example of loyalty, commitment, and enduring love. He is also survived by his sisters, Connie Viar and husband Frankie Viar, and Judy McVey and husband Wayne McVey; his daughters, Shannon Davis and Christie Pollard; his cherished grandchildren, Samantha Pollard, Miranda Mitchell, Casey Davis, Christian Fonseca, Joseth Pollard, and Cosie Mitchell; and his great-grandchildren, Malik Christian, Trinity Christian, and Brianua Fitch, along with many loved nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.
Emmitt dedicated 41 years of his life to BWX Technologies, where he was known for his strong work ethic, dedication, and integrity. Throughout his career, he earned numerous awards and recognitions that reflected the pride he took in providing for his family and doing every job well. Outside of work, Emmitt found joy in life’s simple blessings. He loved attending antique car shows, flea markets, listening to country and bluegrass music, flat-foot dancing, playing horseshoes at the campground, and sitting around sharing stories and laughter with those he loved. He never met a stranger. Anyone fortunate enough to know him quickly discovered his generous heart, warm spirit, quick humor, and ability to make others feel welcome and valued. More than anything, Emmitt loved the Lord and loved his family. He was a godly man whose faith gave him strength and guided the way he lived his life. He was proud to be a husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, and he poured his love into his family every day. His presence brought comfort, laughter, wisdom, and unwavering support to those around him.
In the last several weeks of his life, Emmitt was lovingly cared for in the home of his granddaughter, Miranda Mitchell. His wife, granddaughter, her partner Joshua Dodson devoted themselves to making sure he was surrounded by comfort, dignity, laughter, and family. Those precious memories together became a time filled with love, stories, and moments that will forever be cherished.
One of the greatest comforts to his family is the peace Emmitt carried in his faith. When asked if he believed in the Lord and believed that Christ died for our sins, his answer was always certain. And when asked if he believed he was going to Heaven, Emmitt simply smiled and said, “I’m going right through the front door.” He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and joyfully remembered by all who knew him.
The family will receive friends beginning at 10:30 AM on Thursday, May 14, 2026 at Updike Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Huddleston and a funeral service will follow at 12 noon in the chapel with Rev. Jeff Worley officiating. Interment will follow in Morgans Baptist Church Cemetery.
Arrangements are being handled by Updike Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Huddleston.
