Oct. 30, 1953—Oct. 30, 2009

Thurman B. Mitchell Jr., who had worked in sales and marketing in local broadcasting, died Friday in Charlotte, N. C. He was 56.

Born in Buffalo, he was a graduate of East High School and Canisius College.

Mr. Mitchell worked in sales and marketing for 20 years, first at WGRZ-TV and most recently at WKBW-TV, where he retired in March as the result of illness.

In 1998, Mr. Mitchell was recognized as Salesperson of the Year by WKBW’s parent company, Granite Broadcasting.

Survivors include his wife of 22 years, the former Benita Boyles; two daughters, Jennifer Judson-Mitchell and A’Dina; a son, Tyler B.; and three sisters, Marnetta Malcolm, Joyce and Valerie.

His funeral will be at 11 a. m. Saturday in St. John Baptist Church, 184 Goodell St.