Lois Z. Mitchel, 78, of Gettysburg, went home to be with the Lord Saturday, February 21, 2009 at the Gettysburg Lutheran Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. She was the wife of Pastor Richard A. Mitchel.

Born February 6, 1931 in Philadelphia, she was the daughter of the late Joseph L. and Elsie (Hahn) Zimmerman.

Mrs. Mitchel was a member of the Gettysburg Bible Baptist Church and, during her husband's pastorate, was the church secretary, organist, and pianist. She continued as organist under her son's pastorate until her extended illness.

Lois graduated from John Bartram High School in Philadelphia and later attended Westminster College. She and her husband were married July 9, 1955 and later came to Gettysburg where she was also employed at the Gettysburg Hospital for 25 years until her retirement in 2000. Lois was a devoted wife, homemaker, and helpmate to her husband and family.

Surviving, in addition to her husband, is her son, Pastor David J. Mitchel and wife Patricia of York Springs; her daughter, Deborah Speck and husband David of Newville, PA; two grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held 4:30 p.m. Sunday, March 1, 2009 at Gettysburg Bible Baptist Church, 3003 Old Harrisburg Road, Gettysburg, with Pastor Gary Freeman officiating. Friends will be received at the church after 4 p.m. Sunday to visit with the family. Burial will be private in Biglerville Cemetery.

The Peters Funeral Home, 321 Carlisle St., Gettysburg, is in charge of arrangements.

For those desiring, contributions may be made in Mrs. Mitchel's memory to the Gettysburg Bible Baptist Church, 3003 Old Harrisburg Road, Gettysburg, PA 17325.

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