Frederick (Ricky) passed away on July 25, 2017 at Maryview Hospital, Portsmouth VA surrounded by members of his family.  Ricky was born to James Earl (deceased) and Annie B. Mitchell on Sept. 20, 1960 in Canton, OH.  Ricky was the third child and attended public schools in Canton.  Ricky had a typical childhood where he enjoyed playing with his brother & sisters, cousins Dwight (Tyrone) Parrish, Tony Reese and other kids in the southeast and northeast Canton neighborhoods.  James Mitchell (Dad), became the coach of the Mighty Mite Braves and Ricky became the batboy at age 6 where he gained a love of sports and competition. 

During the national gas crisis of the 70’s and the demise of the auto industry in the 80’s, Ricky like so many others had difficulty finding a meaningful job.  In 2004, he worked with Pastor Howie Robinson washing and detailing cars.  In 2005, Ricky traveled to Florida and lived with Sister Lynette (Cricket) and Husband Roy Johnson where he found work at a number of places.  His desire to be close to his children inspired him to returned to Ohio.  In 2009, Ricky left Ohio to “celebrate his birthday” with Teddy in Virginia.  Ricky’s birthday celebration stretched into a permanent stay and uncovered his love for the ocean.  Ricky loved the Ocean View Beach and found employment opportunities that enabled him to hone his car detailing skills.

Ricky was recently married to his childhood sweetheart, Karen (Hill) Mitchell and they resided in Norfolk, VA.  Together they have three children and are the parents of five children (Octavia, Andreas, Anastacia, Frederick Jr., A’ja), 17 grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews and friends.   Ricky’s is survived by his mother Annie B. Wallace, siblings Lynette (Roy) of Sanford FL, Teddy (Lanette) of Chesapeake VA, Marcella and Kayla of Canton OH.  Ricky was an avid basketball fan and had a passion for car detailing.  He had recently started his own mobile detailing business and had a number of satisfied customers.  Ricky knew the Lord and often attended Mt. Lebanon Baptist Church in Chesapeake, VA (Pastor K.W. Brown).  Ricky’s infectious spirit and willingness to help others often would bring a smile to all.  Ricky cherished his family and was truly loved by family and friends.  He will be sorely missed by all that knew him.  

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