The gates of heaven have opened, Mama has called me home, I am free at last. Billy Edward Mitchell, age 61, died at home surrounded by family and close friends on Friday, January 2, 2009 after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. He was born February, 04, 1947 in Hodge, Louisiana to the late Ned and Ollie Mae (Anderson) Mitchell. Billy graduated from Hodge High School in the class of 1965. He worked at Newell Rubbermaid for 13 years and later at Second Season, a division of the Bruce Company. Billy enjoyed working in his yard at home, was an avid sports fan and enjoyed trips to Ho-Chunk. He is survived by his beloved significant other Chris Elliott; a son, Edwardo; and three daughters, Rochelle, Cicly and Renee Mitchell; Chris' children, who he loved as his own, Shannon (Rich Simonis) Ruhland and Nicole (Julius) Sheppard; eight grandchildren, including a special granddaughter, Ariana Mae, who tickled his heart and kept him going; five brothers and three sisters, and a very special brother, Leroy Kurth. He is further survived by other relatives and many friends. He was preceded in death by his parents. A funeral service will be held on Monday, January 5, 2009 at 1:30pm at HOOVERSON FUNERAL HOME, Sauk City. Friends may call from 12:30 until time of service. Burial will be held at Galilee Cemetery in Jackson Parish.