Thomas Calvin "Big Head" Mitchell, 67 of Bedford, passed away Tuesday, July 19, 2011 at his residence. He was born on Saturday, January 8, 1944 in Bedford County, a son of the late Edmond Mitchell and Sadie Martin Mitchell. He was also preceded in death by his wife, Sylvia Hanger Mitchell, a daughter, Tracy M. Knick, a grandson, Colton W. Knick and three sisters, Elsie Wood, Patsy Huddleston and Nancy Kennedy. He was a loving father, wonderful Paw Paw and a great friend to many. He worked as a mechanic in Bedford for 40+ years. Surviving are his daughters, Penny Mitchell & friend, Cliff McKisson, Kristy M. Glidden & husband, Brad; five grandchildren, Dustin Mitchell & friend, Brooke Tuck, T.J. Mitchell & fiance, Crystal, Koby Karnes, Mason Knick, Kyler Glidden; two great-grandchildren, Carsen & Caden Mitchell; three brothers, James E. Mitchell & wife, Joyce, Roger Mitchell & wife, Joyce, Danny Mitchell & wife, Melody; a sister, Sue Martin, a brother-in-law, Jamie Kennedy and many nieces & nephews. The family requests those wishing to make memorials to consider Bedford County D. A. R. E/G. R. E. A. T Program, 1345 Falling Creek Road, Bedford, VA 24253. Funeral services will be held on Friday, July 22, 2011 at 2:00 PM at Updike Funeral Chapel, Bedford with Rev. Danny Holdren officiating. Interment will follow in Radford Baptist Church Cemetery. Friends may call Thursday after 2 PM and the family will receive friends from 5 until 8 PM at Updike Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Bedford.