Gary Barry Mitchell

Gary Barry Mitchell, known affectionately as Coach Mitchell and Mr. Mitchell, passed away on April 8, 2025, at the age of 66. He was born on June 19, 1958, in Dexter, Missouri. Spent his junior High and High School years living in Jenison, Michigan. He attended college at Grand Valley State University earning his Bachelor’s Degree in Education. After college, he moved to Louisiana where he started his teaching career in 1981 and throughout his life, he inspired many as a dedicated educator, mentor, and coach.

During his years of teaching, he also was an NCAA umpire where he was able to travel the country umpiring several games as well as becoming an instructor to several other umpires. Gary was known for his unwavering commitment and passion for teaching. He had a long history of teaching and coaching at numerous high schools throughout Louisiana and still to this day was teaching until the week before his death. He has spent his last 12-13 years of teaching at his most recent school, Live Oak High School, where he thoroughly enjoyed teaching AP History.

Within this time, he had two daughters and a son who was his world and became a grandpa to seven. His legacy as a compassionate coach, respected educator, and devoted mentor will continue to inspire future generations.

Gary was preceded in death by his mother, Sharon Kay Mitchell; his father, James Robert Mitchell, Jr.; grandparents, James Mitchell Sr. and Gastel Mitchell; grandma and grandpa, Burl and Agnes Christy; and several beloved dogs.

Gary leaves behind his three children, Kimberly Aucoin and spouse Larry Aucoin, Adam Mitchell and spouse Rhea Mitchell, Morgan Lemoine and Spouse Bradley Lemoine; his 7 grandchildren, Landon Aucoin, Kinsley Aucoin, Lily Lemoine, Lakyn Aucoin, Sutton Lemoine, Asher Mitchell and Collins Lemoine; the mother of his three children; his two dogs, Stormi and Ollie; as well as many friends, students, players, coworkers, acquaintances as well as a legacy.

In lieu of flowers, the family would like for donations to be made to the American Cancer Society, in honor of Gary.

A Visitation will be held on Monday, April 21, 2025, at Live Oak Highschool in Watson, LA from 3:00 pm until 5:15 pm with a Celebration of Life to follow.