Donald Allen Mitchell

Donald Allen Mitchell was a spiritual, kind-hearted, generous, funny, intelligent, talented, and a well-traveled soul whose light touched everyone fortunate enough to know him. Donald had a profound love for exploring the world. His travels took him to Australia, New Zealand, Paris, England, Germany, and Indonesia, among many other places. Peru held a particularly special place in his heart, especially his time at Machu Picchu, which he often spoke of with awe, gratitude and love. Though well-traveled, Donald still dreamed of seeing more of the world—most notably Russia and, above all, Egypt. A gifted performer from a young age, Donald began singing in elementary school choir and continued through junior high and high school, where he performed in Varsity Choir, stage productions, and specialty singing groups. His love for music and performance followed him into adulthood, including several years performing with the Golden Gate Men’s Choir in San Francisco, as well as several appearances in A Christmas Carol, a musical performance at Lawry’s Restaurant during the Christmas Holidays in Las Vegas. During his spiritual journey while living in San Francisco, Donald embraced a deeper calling. He performed spiritual readings, taught meditation, opened his business Meditation Magic, and became a Reverend. In the 1980s and 1990s, Donald compassionately cared for many close friends who were ill with HIV/AIDS—providing comfort, support, and spiritual guidance during their final journeys. His empathy, courage, and selflessness during this time reflected the very core of who he was. Born in California on September 6, 1963, Donald grew up in Las Vegas before relocating to Reno for college and later moving to San Francisco. There, he spent several years working in IT at Chevron, helping prepare systems for Y2K and the future beyond. After returning to Las Vegas in 2003, Donald transitioned into the casino industry, serving as a Casino Host at the Rio Hotel & Casino, and later as a Credit Manager with Barclays Bank. Like so many others, the pandemic marked a profound shift in Donald’s life. While working from home for Barclays, he also devoted himself to caring for his beloved mother, Diane, during her illness until her passing—a period filled with love, sacrifice, and emotional challenge. Afterward, and no longer employed with Barclays, Donald sought a new direction. Embracing a fresh chapter, he became a Real Estate Agent with Century 21 in Las Vegas. Diagnosed with HIV 25 years ago, Donald lived with immense strength and resilience. Thanks to advances in medicine and his dedication to his health, he was able to live a full and meaningful life—far beyond what once seemed possible. Though he faced many medical, mental and physical challenges, he met them with bravery, grace, and unwavering determination, even in moments of fear or doubt. Donald passed unexpectedly Christmas of 2025 at the age of 62. He loved singing, music, drama, art, travel, San Francisco, Peru, football, and—most of all—his family and friends. Donald’s sparkle, warmth, and shining light will be deeply missed. He will forever be cherished with love and laughter, living on in our hearts always. Donald is survived by his sisters Janice, Cheryl, Deborah, and Donna; his brothers Brian and Steven; his nephew Shawn; and many loving aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Donald Allen Mitchell’s name to the AIDS Foundation or to local homeless shelters.

Donald Allen Mitchell

September 6, 1963 - December 26, 2025