2017Issue3_Alabama_v4

AGA NEWS

“The grocery industry in Alabama lost an amazing person, a true entrepreneur and a visionary that loved his state, his community and his family. When you would meet with Jack you could always see the love of the grocery industry wash over him as he told you countless stories. It was an honor to know him and to pleasure to work with a founding member of the grocery industry in the State of Alabama," said Ellie Taylor, President, Alabama Grocers Association. Jack served on the Board of Governors of the NAWGA (IDA); past president of the Alabama Wholesale Grocery Association; Director on the Albertville Municipal Utilities Board; Director on the Retail Bank Board of Directors and Director on the Tennessee Walking Horse Trainers Association. In 1999, Jack was honored with the National Grocers Association Spirit of America Award. The NGA Spirit of America Award, established in 1982, honors key industry and community figures who have provided leadership in the areas of community services and government relations on behalf of

a free and independent food distribution system. In 2006, Jack received the Alabama Grocers Association Wholesaler of the Year Award. This award recognizes deserving individuals in the wholesale distribution industry who provide leadership, excellence in their field, a passion for the grocery industry and are an advocate for the Association and the state of Alabama. Jack is the father of three children; Karen Algie, David Mitchell and Jay Mitchell. He is the grandfather of 10

Tom Wenning, NGA, presents Jack Mitchell with the Spirit of America Award.

grandchildren and a great-grandfather of seven great grandchildren. Jack’s favorite hobby was the Tennessee Walking Horses. For many of us that knew Jack Mitchell, he helped countless people start their careers and mentored numerous people on their path of success. He took pride in the success of others and will always be remembered as a friend to the independent grocer.

Jay Mitchell with U.S. Sen. Richard Shelby.

The Mitchell Family has requested that the Jack Mitchell Memorial Scholarship Fund be endowed in his name. To donate, please visit www.AlabamaGrocers.org or make checks payable to the Alabama Grocers Education Foundation, 300 Vestavia Parkway, Ste. 3500, Birmingham, Alabama 35216. 205.823.5498.

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ALABAMA GROCER |