Mitchell "Paul" Burress, age 76, went to be with his Lord and Savior on September 27, 2016. Preacher Paul was a dedicated minister of the Word of God. He was a dynamic evangelist, missionary, and teacher. Preacher Paul spent his life serving Jesus, the One who gave His life for all. He was loved and admired by everyone who met him. Throughout his life, his desire was to not only lead people to the Lord, but also make Disciples of Christ. He was founder and President of Hearts and Hands International Missions. In serving, he inspired many people to join the work of missions and spreading the Word of God throughout the World. He started churches in Holland and the Philippines as well as helped struggling churches get back on their feet. Jamaica and India were closest to his heart, and many souls were led to the Lord in both countries. His passion for missions also impacted areas all over the United States and in Canada. He recently held pastor training in India educating numerous Pastors who had limited resources available to them. In India, long-time friend, Arun Babu, followed Preacher Paul's call to the ministry, and he has accomplished a great advance in the gospel. Numerous lives were changes by the ministry of "Preachers Paul", however, he gave all glory to God. As he loved to say when departing, "Goodbye for Now" because he knew if he didn't see you again here, he'd see you in Heaven. Preacher Paul is preceded in death by, his parents, Hollie and Ora Burress; his loving wife, Janet Burress; granddaughter, Mahala Burress; and father-in-law, Jack Raben.
He is survived by children, Kimberly Luther and husband David, Mark Burress and wife Kathi, Matt Burress and Diane and Paulette Garza; 15 amazing grandchildren; 8 wonderful great grandchildren; dedicated siblings Juanita Smithwick, Donnie Burress and Ronnie Burress; mother-in-law, Ila Raben; sister-in-law, Susan Petitclerc.
The family will receive friends at the Holley-Gamble Funeral home, 2827 Hwy 116, Caryville, TN 37714, on Saturday, October 1, 2016 from 2:00-4:00PM with the funeral service to follow with the Rev. John Seiber officiating. Preacher Paul's interment will be held at the Nicks Creek Baptist Church Cemetery in Huntsville, TN following his funeral service. www.holleygamble.com