Jonathan Mitchell “Mitch” Petrus of Carlisle, died unexpectedly July 18, 2019 at the age of 32. Mitch is survived by his parents, Phil and Sue Petrus, his brother, Trey Petrus all of Carlisle, sister, Rhonda and Cary Crawford of Yukon, Oklahoma, Kimberlee and Curt Christian of Carlisle, sister, Tessa Charles of Las Vegas, Nevada and brother, Donald Rex Childers II; paternal grandmother, Evelyn Petrus of Carlisle; his paternal aunt, Marylin and Mark Rice of the Woodlands, Texas, and Mary Katherine Petrus of Slovak, Arkansas and a host of other cousins and beloved friends.
Mitch was born May 11, 1987 in Fort Smith, Arkansas to Sue and Phil Petrus. He graduated from the University of Arkansas in 2009 with a degree in Agricultural Business. An Unrated tight end prospect out of high school, Petrus was a walk-on at the University of Arkansas. Mitch earned a scholarship in 2007 and blocked for Darren McFadden and Felix Jones. In 2009, Petrus was named ALL-SEC. At the NFL Scouting Combine in 2010, Mitch completed 45 reps of 225 pounds on bench press which tied him for the record of the most since 2000. In 2010 the New York Giants drafted Mitch in the fifth round. He made a name for himself by playing in 27 NFL games, and is one of the 2012 Super Bowl World Champions. Following his NFL career Mitch returned home to Arkansas and became involved in local politics, entrepreneurship, and the high school football community. He became a regular sideline reporter for Fox 16’s Friday night football highlight show. Later he began his own towing business. Countless stories have emerged on how often he would go above and beyond for his customers. Mitch also worked as chief of staff to Arkansas state senator, Jonathan Dismang in the 2018 legislative session. Mitch was so much more than a “big, dumb football player”. He was just as comfortable on the dance floor as he was on the football field. Mitch had an enormous capacity for joy and that is how we will always remember him.
Funeral services will be 1:00 P.M., Tuesday, July 23, 2019 at the Church of Christ in Biscoe, Arkansas. Visitation will be 6:00 P.M., Monday, July 22 at Westbrook Funeral Home in Hazen. In lieu of flowers memorials can be made to
Gofundme.com/Mitch-Petrus-scholarship-fund
I am so sorry for your loss! Mitch was such a wonderful man! My thoughts and prayers are with you guys!
Such a kind young man full of life prayers for all and God Bless the Razorback live on through Mitch’s memory
I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your son. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. We all look forward to the day when God’s promise at Revelation 21:4 is revealed “when He will wipe every tear and do away with death”. It is my prayer that He will give you all strength and the power beyond your normal ability to cope. Sue you are a strong women but He will give you the extra strength that you need during the difficult days ahead. He will also give you comfort because He is the “God of all comfort” – 2 Corinthians 1:3,4. Love you dearly—-
We are so very saddened for your loss. Please know our thoughts are with you at this time and that we pray strength and peace for you as you travel this difficult road.
We have so many fond memories of Mitch and we are saddened by his passing. He has influenced many during his short life and he will not be forgotten.
May God bring you comfort.
To the Petrus family Dottie and I were deeply saddened by the passing of Mitch. He was a outstanding young man and It was a privilege to coach him at the U of A. I will always remember your son and all the great memories we shared at Arkansas. May the lord bring peace in your hearts during this time.
We are so sorry for your loss! Mitch was one of a kind. Know that you are all in our thoughts and prayers!! May the Lord give you strength and comfort.
Mitch my dear friend I’m going to miss you more than you know. I’ll never forget your fun, loving, & energetic personality. I can still hear your crazy laugh that’s just one of a kind. I already know you are dancing around and making everyone laugh in heaven buddy. My Thoughts & prayers are with the Petrus family. From your New Jersey Family the Tedeschi’s love you big fella #66 #62
Words cannot express my sadness 🙁 May the comfort of God help you through this difficult time. May Mitch rest in peace and your hearts find strength with his memories. Big hug for you Mrs. Sue and regards in this time
Phil, Sue, & Family,
My heart is broken to hear of Mitch’s passing–but I know he is in heaven in the presence of God, and y’all will one day be reunited again.
I am praying for peace and comfort for all of you and just want y’all to know that my family and I are here for y’all if you need anything at all, day or night.
Mitch was a wonderful young man who put God first and family/friends second. I feel lucky to have known him for the short amount of time that I did, and I feel just as lucky to know each one of you.
I love y’all so very much.
Sharing in your loss,
The Davis Family