James Mitchell Gerth, age 71, passed away suddenly Monday, January 9th, 2023 at Morristown-Hamblen Healthcare System, surrounded by his family. Mitch was born in Kenton, Ohio to his parents James and Ruth Gerth.

An avid and lifelong University of Tennessee Vols fan, he was a member of the Pride of the Southland Marching Band. Mitch graduated from the University of Tennessee and the Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science.

Mitch became a licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer and began his career at Mayes Mortuary in 1984. Mitch had a deep compassion to serving the Hamblen and Grainger County communities in their time of need. He also served in many management roles during his career, with 20 years as President of Smith Mortuary in Rutledge, TN and most recently as Vice President of Mayes Mortuary in Morristown, TN.

He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather and brother. Mitch’s pride and joy was spending time with his grandchildren cheering on and supporting them at their sporting events.

Mitch is survived by his loving wife Diane (Neff), daughters Amanda (Josh) Jones, Chrissy (Lance) Epps, and Allison (Jeremy) Cox, grandchildren Noelle and Ellyse Cox and Brice and Marley Epps, and sister Susan (Ed) Stiner.

A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date

The family requests in lieu of flowers, donations be made to his daughter Allison Cox for her continued physical therapy. Donations may be dropped off or mailed to Mayes Mortuary, 444 West Main St., Morristown, TN 37814.

Arrangements by Mayes Mortuary.