George Spry Mitchell

George Spry Mitchell, 74, of Florence, AL, passed away on November 21st, 2025, surrounded by those who loved him most. A man of toughness and grit, Spry lived life simply and on his own terms. Whether working the land, tending his cattle, hunting in the woods, or roping on horseback, he commanded respect through his actions, not his words. A true outdoorsman and cattleman, he was known for his strength of character and the influence he had on the men around him. Those who knew him deeply loved him, and his legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the cattle farm he cherished.

Spry was born on September 14th, 1951, to Dewey and Sleetie Mitchell of Florence. As a child, he spent time playing yard ball with neighborhood kids and with his grandfather, “Big Dad.” Spry often spoke about how Big Dad taught him about cattle and encouraged him to take risks in his endeavors. Their bond was strong, and the lessons he learned from Big Dad played a role in shaping his work ethic and approach to life.

Spry graduated from Coffee High School in 1970. He attended New Mexico Military Institute where he played football. He later transferred to the University of North Alabama to play for the Lions football team as a defensive end. Spry holds the record for most fumble recoveries in a season with seven, set in 1972. His achievements are documented in the UNA Football Record Book

As a 3rd generation cattleman, Spry was a prominent cattle farmer who was a well-respected figure in the cattle industry. Spry was known for producing high quality beef that was notably featured in fine dining restaurants across the Southeast. His cattle farm, located on the O’Neal property, also participated in educational programs to teach local students about agriculture. In 2017, Spry and his partner were awarded Lauderdale County Cattleman of the Year.

Spry was an avid hunter and he loved the outdoors. He, his brother, Mitch, nephew Trent, and his dearest friends spent many days hunting for all sorts of game. Spry also loved horses and had a cowboy’s heart for team roping, traveling across the Southeast to compete. Hunting and roping weren’t just hobbies for Spry—they were things he truly enjoyed and became a big part of his best memories.

Spry is survived by his only child, Melissa Yarbrough (Drew) of Huntsville, his brother, Dewey “Mitch” Mitchell (Margaret) of Florence; his sister, Mollie Smith of Muscle Shoals, his sister, Mary Cron McIntyre (Brian) of Killen, and by a host of nieces and nephews.  

He was a proud grandfather to two granddaughters, Ella Grace and Olivia Cate. They loved spending time with their “Big Dad,” enjoying fish fries, Kubota rides, and checking the cows.

Spry was preceded in death by his father, Dewey Mitchell Jr and his mother, Sleetie Mitchell.

A graveside service, open to all friends and family, will be held Saturday, December 6th at 3pm at Greenview Memorial Park, 3657 Old Chisholm Rd. Florence, AL 35633, with Brother Doc Shell officiating. In the event of rain, the service will move to the Greenview Memorial Chapel.

Honorary Pallbearers will be Drew Yarbrough, Trent Dawson, Dewey Mitchell, David Rice, Chuck Covington, Kevin Clemmons, Jerry Hester, Brown Nolan, John Locker, Terry Buchanan, Randy Smith, Joey Riley, and Harry Floyd.

Spry’s family would like to extend heartfelt appreciation to David Rice, Doc Shell, Sammy Gilbreth, and Dr. Robert Mann, and for the love and support shown to Spry during his final days.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Spry Mitchell Memorial Fund supporting UNA athletics. Donations may be mailed to: The UNA Foundation, UNA Box 5113, Florence, AL 35632. Please make checks payable to “UNA Foundation” and add note “Spry Mitchell” on the memo line. To make donations electronically please click the link below. https://www.givecampus.com/tc7fap?designation=sprymitchellmemorialfund&

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