Former State Representative Tommy E. Mitchum, 76, of Batesville, peacefully passed away on Monday, December 22, 2025, at White River Medical Center, surrounded by family. Known for his dedication to public service, his love for animals, and his ability to light up every room he entered, Mitchum leaves behind a legacy remembered across Arkansas.
Born July 17, 1949, Mitchum was a 1967 Southside High School graduate and later became one of the youngest members ever elected to the Arkansas House of Representatives, winning office in 1972 at age 23. He served 20 years in the House, championing key legislation including one of the strongest DWI enforcement bills in state history and serving as spokesperson for the Arkansas State Police Association. Throughout his career, he built lasting friendships across law enforcement and public service.
Beyond politics, Mitchum devoted his time to North Arkansas Human Services (now Health Resources of Arkansas), working to expand mental health and substance treatment across the region. He later served as Civil Enforcement Liaison for DHS under Governor Asa Hutchinson and contributed to the Morgan Nick Foundation.
A man who loved deeply, especially his dogs Buddy, Jasper and Sebastian, friends often said, “There will never be another Tommy Mitchum.” His family remembers him as someone who lived fully—rich in laughter, friendships, and purpose.
Mitchum is survived by his brother Johnny (Becky) Mitchum of Maumelle; former wife Janet Mitchum of Pleasant Plains; children Brian (Jamie) Mitchum of Bella Vista and Rachel Mitchum of Southside; grandchildren Isaac, Hope, and Haven; and several nieces, nephews, and great-nephews.
Service Information
A family greeting will be held Friday, December 26, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at Maple Springs Missionary Baptist Church in Rosie, followed by a Celebration of Life at 2:00 p.m. with Bro. Curt Howard officiating. Speakers include Todd Childers, Dan Johnson, and Johnny Mitchum. Private burial will follow at Egner Cemetery in Salado under Qualls Funeral Homes’ direction.
Honorary pallbearers include Dan Johnson, Paul Strecker, Bobby Walker, Larry Pinkston, John Yarbrough, Shelby Moore, Andrew Marsch, Ron Bates, John Davis, Paul Holifield, John David Morgan, Scott Lancaster, Doug Smith, Keith Harmon, Rocky Wilmuth, Dale Cole, Jonathan Freiert and Jeffrey Freiert.
Memorial Contributions
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to:
• Humane Society of Independence County – 5 Environmental Dr., Batesville, AR 72501
• New Hope Refuge – 10 Bell Grove Rd., Batesville, AR 72501 (CashApp: $newhoperefuge619)
• SNIC – Spay Neuter Impact Coalition – 169 Mount Springs Rd., Batesville, AR 72501
Obituary From Qualls Funeral Home
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