James Mitchell Englestead

James Mitchell Englestead, lovingly known as Mitch, was welcomed into the world on May 1, 1960, by his mother, Ann, and his beloved grandfather, Zaza. They were the center of his early life and his very best friends. When Mitch was only four years old, he lost his mother. Soon afterward, he and his little sister were taken to Kentucky, far from the home and family they knew. Longing to return, Mitch prayed and hoped to go home. Their ward joined in fasting and prayer, and those prayers were answered when their grandparents were allowed to bring them back to Hurricane. In time, Mitch and his sister were adopted and sealed to their Englestead grandparents, restoring the family bonds that meant so much to him. Back in Hurricane, Mitch grew up surrounded by family, friends, laughter, and plenty of small-town mischief. He was an athlete in high school and loved a good joke, especially when it brought happiness to others. His humor, warmth, and playful spirit remained part of him throughout his life. After high school, Mitch attended Ricks College, Dixie College, and UNLV. He then served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Illinois Chicago North Mission. His faith remained a steady and meaningful influence throughout his life. At the time of his passing, he served as Elders Quorum President, a responsibility he treasured. He continued to love the Lord and the gospel of Jesus Christ throughout his life. Mitch’s work reflected both his interests and his abilities. He worked in ambulance services and security and taught Isshin-Ryu karate. Yet his lifelong passion was rocks and sand. He eventually found his place in the rock and sand industry, joking that he was “playing in the rocks and sand, getting paid two bits a day and all he could eat.” His work became both a career and a source of genuine joy. Wherever life took him, Mitch had a remarkable gift for friendship. He formed lasting relationships with family, friends, coworkers, fellow members of the concrete industry, and countless others. He loved deeply, laughed easily, and took special joy in making people happy and telling his jokes. A few years ago, Mitch received emails and then a phone call that changed his life. A young woman named Shelley told him she was his daughter. After waiting many years, Mitch was overjoyed to find her. He had made the difficult decision to place her for adoption when he was young, and their reunion gave him the precious opportunity to know her, welcome her into his life, and love her. Mitch’s life was filled with faith, family, friendship, laughter, adventure, hard work, and service. He left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. He was loved, and he loved deeply. Funeral Services Thursday, September 10, 2026 — Las Vegas, Nevada Viewing: 3:00–3:45 p.m. Funeral Service: 4:00 p.m. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 3200 N Mustang St. Las Vegas, NV 89108 Friday, September 11, 2026 — Hurricane, Utah Viewing: 1:00–1:45 p.m. Funeral Service: 2:00 p.m. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 274 S 100 W Hurricane, UT 84737 Memorial Fund In lieu of flowers, a Memorial Fund has been established in Mitch’s memory. Donations will first help with any additional funeral expenses, with remaining funds donated to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Missionary Fund, a cause Mitch generously supported throughout his life. Continuing that support is a meaningful way to honor his faith and legacy. https://gofund.me/38412fddb