Hoyt Mitchell

On this day, October 2, 2022, Hoyt Upton Mitchell passed away at the age of 92.  Hoyt was born on May 3, 1930 in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.  Born to Mabel (Walker) Mitchell Simmons Fulgham and Hoyt Mitchell, who preceded him in death.  He had three siblings: Lillian Madora (Mitchell) Coates, Charles P. Mitchell and Ruby (Mitchell) Freeman.  Hoyt was also married to Ann (Cheatam-Johnson) Mitchell, Dorothy (Gillenwater) Mitchell, and Elaine (Jackson) Mitchell, all of whom preceded him in death.

Hoyt attended Tuscaloosa Industrial High School, where he played football.  He briefly attended Lincoln University, which was one of a few Historically Black College and Universities (HBCU).  After a football injury, he left school and moved to Detroit.  Early on in Detroit, he moved in with his family and enjoyed a sister-like relationship with his cousin, Dorothy Hopkins.  He moved on from there and married Ann. his first wife.  They purchased a home on Oakman Blvd, which is where he would live for the remainder of his life.

Hoyt worked many jobs in and around the Detroit area.  He landed on his last job at Michigan Chrome and Chemical Company.  He started in the receiving department and rose to the position of salesman.  In fact, Hoyt was the only Black salesman to have worked for the company.  Although he was a big fan of the University of Alabama, he loved Detroit and supported both the Lions and Tigers.  He enjoyed watching Michigan State University and all the local high school football teams, even as they struggled during the seasons.  Hoyt also enjoyed jazz and eating out at his favorite restaurant, "The Dirty Dog".

If you knew Hoyt and spoke to him on any current subject, especially sports, you know he could hang with the best of them.  Like most of those that are experienced and wise, his mind was always sharp, even though his body was dull and fading.

Hoyt is survived by many family, friends and envious well-wishers that know he is now in that special place, with God.