Joseph Edward Mitchell, Jr. "Joe", 81, of Prosperity, SC, died March 21, 2025. He was born on August31, 1943, in Wakefield, Rhode Island, the son of Joseph Edward and Clare Patricia (Havey) Mitchell.

Born into a military family, Joe's father served in the Navy during World War II, and the family moved back to Lawrence, MA, to be near relatives during wartime. Joe grew up in Lawrence and attended St. Mary's Elementary School and Central Catholic High School, where he laid the foundation for a lifelong love of learning.

Joe went on to pursue higher education, earning a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Villanova University in 1965, followed by a Doctorate from the University of Rhode Island in 1970. His academic achievements were the beginning of his distinguished career.

Joe was a dedicated professional whose career in the pharmaceutical industry spanned decades. He began his career at Norwich Eaton Pharmacy, where he served as Director of Quality, before moving on to significant leadership roles at several renowned companies. He was the Vice President of Corporate Quality at Herbalife, Corporate Vice President of Quality Service at Banner Pharmacaps, and Senior Vice President of Corporate Quality at Pharmachem Laboratories.

After retiring from a distinguished corporate career, Joe continued to share his expertise as the founder of Mitchell GMP Consulting, LLC, where he helped companies enhance their quality standards.

Joe enjoyed being outdoors and spent much of his free time on the lake or at the beach, sharing in precious moments with his family. Joe made sure to have all the toys a grandkid would need to have a good time, jet skis, inner tubes, fishing poles, and great music for the boat ride. As a family, they spent many Easters at the lake, Thanksgiving holidays at the beach, trips to Walt Disney and ensuring they always had the perfect family photo for their annual Christmas Card.

Joe was a member of Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church.

He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Maureen, two sons, Joseph E. Mitchell, III and his wife Debbie, Brian J. Mitchell and his wife Beth; and his four grandchildren, J. Ethan Mitchell, Allison Mitchell, Clare Mitchell, Madeline Mitchell.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents, and his sister, Beverly Gallant.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church or St. Jude's Children's Hospital.

Memories and messages may be left on his tribute wall.

Whitaker Funeral Home is honored to serve the Mitchell family.