John Blair Mitchell, Sr., 86, of Hot Springs, died Friday, June 19, 2026 at the Brian Center – Alleghany in Low Moor.

John was born May 2, 1940 in Roanoke, Virginia to Charles Manning Mitchell and Anna Louise Bell Mitchell, growing up alongside his beloved sister, Jean Mitchell Carpenter.

John achieved a unique place in local history as a member of the first graduating class at Cave Spring High School in Roanoke. He then attended VMI where he balanced the rigors of cadet life with playing football and earning a B.S. in Civil Engineering. He was then commissioned in the United States Army as an officer in the elite Special Forces. Once his military commission was completed, he then served as the Resident Engineer for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers on the construction of the Gathright Dam, an engineering feat that created Lake Moomaw in Alleghany County.

In 1968, John co-founded Hammond-Mitchell, Inc. alongside the late Frank H. Hammond III. Decades later, this heavy civil construction company continues to thrive as a testament to their foundational hard work.

Later in life, he pursued his passions by enjoying many years of farming and ranching operations between the beautiful landscapes of Virginia and Wyoming.

John leaves behind a large, loving family, including his wife Maude Wynn Myers Mitchell, two children, Laura Lee McDougall (Jim) and son John Blair (Noreen) Mitchell Jr., four grandchildren, Ashby McGary Dauber (Ben), McKenna Mitchell Reed (John), Jack McGary (Kelly) and John Blair (Mitch) Mitchell III, and three great grandchildren, Wynn Dauber, Murphy Reed and JR Reed who carry his memory forward; and a special caregiver, Lisa Petrosky.

In keeping with his wishes, his body has been cremated.

A celebration of John’s life is planned for a later date.

Arritt Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Friends wishing to send condolences online may do so at arrittfuneralhome.com.