Alvin J. Mitchell, age 85, of Dover, died peacefully Sunday, June 28, 2026, at Saint Mary's Regional Medical Center. He was born August 8, 1940, on Buck Mountain to Jim and Faye (Smith) Mitchell.

His roots on that mountain ran incredibly deep; as an adult, Alvin made his own home on that very same family farm, beautifully raising his own family on the land where he was raised. He was deeply devoted to his God, his family, his church, his friends, and his lodge brothers. Alvin served faithfully as a deacon for the Phoenix Freewill Baptist Church on Buck Mountain and dedicated his time as a board member for the Phoenix Cemetery. His life was soundtracked by the twang and harmony of bluegrass, gospel, and old country music—sounds that perfectly mirrored his down-to-earth soul. As the ultimate practical joker, Alvin spent a lifetime making sure those around him were always smiling, often right after being the target of one of his pranks. For many years, Alvin served his community as a rural mail carrier in Dover for the U.S. Postal Service. Even after retirement, he continued to deliver mail part-time. He especially loved carrying the mail into the beautiful rural areas north of Hector, delivering joy and making lasting friendships at every stop along the way.

In addition to his parents, He was preceded in death by his brother, Alfred N. Mitchell; and an infant son, Alvin J. Mitchell Jr.

He is survived by his beloved wife of almost 66 years, Katheren (Buie) Mitchell; two daughters and sons-in-law, Diane (Randall) Walters and Carla Mitchell; three grandchildren, Deidre (Jason) Luker, Brett (Emma) Walters, and Drew (Lacey) Walters; five great-grandchildren, Brody Lovell, Reese Lovell, Joshua George, Henry Walters, and Lincoln Walters, along with many extended family members and friends.

The family will receive friends at Shinn Funeral Home in Russellville on Thursday, July 2, from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. for a visitation.

The funeral service will be held at the Phoenix Freewill Baptist Church on Buck Mountain near Dover on Friday, July 3, at 10:00 a.m. A private interment will follow at the Phoenix Cemetery, where a true Buck Mountain icon will be laid to rest.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Phoenix Freewill Baptist Church or to the Phoenix Cemetery, and mailed to: 2640 Landers Loop Rd. Dover, AR 72837.

Online guestbook and condolences available at www.shinnfuneral.com .