SPRINGFIELD, IL – Gerald "Jerry" F. Mitchell, 78, passed away Thursday, February 20, 2020, at his home.

He was born May 16, 1941, in Chicago. He married Nancy Nelson-Jones in Oahu, Hawaii.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Jack; and best friend, Corky.

Jerry earned a Master's Degree from Mayo Clinic. He worked as a Physical Therapist for over 45 years with the last two years spent at Advanced Health Care and semi-retired in 2018. He was a member of the Physical Therapy Association. Jerry was a kind gentleman. He was the coolest man you will ever know with a remarkable history. He was greatly loved, a friend to all and the best father and PawPaw that the kids always deserved.

He is survived by his wife, Nancy; sons, Craig Mitchell, Mark "Biff" Smith, Jeffrey Faine (Vanna), and Jason Jones; daughters, Jamie Williams (Kenny), Jacquee Jones, Jiani Woods, Jessica Jones (Tristan), Bri Keeney (Joe), and Chelsea Keeney; sisters, Stephanie Mitchell and Rosalyn "Piggy" Mitchell; 19 grandchildren; and 4 great-grandchildren.

Per Jerry's request, cremation rites will be accorded.  A celebration of life gathering will be held at a later date.