Arlen Mizell was born on August 25, 1941, to John and Bessie Mizell. He was raised in Williamston, North Carolina. He graduated high school on 1959 and went to East Carolina University, where he obtained a degree in Education with a minor in Psychology. While attending East Carolina he played football, baseball and joined the Theta Chi Fraternity.
Arlen moved to Apopka, Florida in 1965. He began his teaching career at Apopka Memorial High School teaching Earth Science and Physics first, coached football and taught Physical Education. Arlen then moved to teaching Marketing and starting the DECA Program. He was a board member with Florida DECA while teaching and after retiring became the Chairman of the Board. Arlen was a dedicated teacher and mentor to his students for 38 years in Apopka High School. He also taught evening classes with Valencia Community College. Arlen retired from teaching in 2003.
Arlen, known to many as “Cosmo”, understood the importance of family and giving back to your community. Arlen was a member of the local Jaycees program, which was a community service organization, and even served as its President several times. Arlen was an active member and part of the originators of the Apopka Foliage Sertoma Club. He was also a member of the Apopka Elks Lodge #2422 and an Honorary Life Member of the Apopka VFW.
His dedication to the Apopka Community was also seen through his involvement with service groups as well as his church involvement with the First Presbyterian Church of Apopka, where he served as Elder and also a Trustee. At the church he began the feeding of those in need on Friday’s. Knowing the need was greater that one time a month, Arlen reached out to other local churches who joined the cause.
Arlen is survived by his wife of 55 years, Brenda Woodis to whom he married on November 18, 1967.
Arlen is also survived by his daughters Stacy Clemens and Laura Taylor: son-in-law Christopher Taylor; as well as grandchildren Madison Clemens and Austin Taylor. Sister-in-law Diane Sanders Woodis and her son Danny Sanders.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, February 15, 2023 from 5:00PM-7:00PM at the First Presbyterian Church of Apopka.
Funeral Service will be held on Thursday, February 16, 2023 at 11:00AM at the First Presbyterian Church of Apopka, with a reception to follow.
Memorial contributions may be made in Arlen’s name to Warrior In Me Corp, our family non-profit that supports cancer patients.
Service
Visitation
First Presbyterian Church of Apopka
500 S Highland Ave, Apopka, FL 32703
February 15, 2023
5:00pm - 7:00pm
Funeral
First Presbyterian Church of Apopka
500 S Highland Ave, Apopka, FL 32703
February 16, 202311:00am
This heritage started 67 years ago with Pastor Herbert F. Loomis, who founded the First Baptist Church of Daytona Beach, Florida, in 1934. In 1938 Francis E. Loomis, son of Pastor Herbert F. Loomis, received his license to practice Mortuary Science and in 1941 established Loomis Funeral Home of Winter Garden, FL. 
420 W Main St
Apopka, FL 32712-3452
Ramona Cox Hansbrough says
My prayers go out to all of the family, Brenda and the girls. I have great memories of Mizell, especially coming into Henry’s Meats to buy meat to barbecue. He was always happy and had a smile on his face. I think most people would agree that he would put you in a good mood to be around him.
Joe and Susan Joyner says
Susan and I are so very sorry to hear of Arlen’s passing. We all loved him very much and hold wonderful memories of the times we had together. Arlen was unique! A servant who would do anything for anyone and I include myself as one who was a better person for knowing him. May God grant you all peace….and wonderful memories of the time you had together.
Kimberly Nelson says
To the family,
Brenda, Stacy and Laura
I send my deepest condolences.
So many fond memories of church and community functions. I remember when Mom died I told him it was his turn to take the reigns. He definitely never will be forgotten. Thank you for sharing such a dedicated man.
Much Love
Kimberly Nelson
Melanie King says
Thinking about all of you. Always a happy personality. Remembering all the Christmas trees he sold too. Prayers for peace & comfort. Class of 88 AHS
Charlotte Siler says
My thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of this wonderful man R.I.P. Cosmo you were a great teacher and friend
Charlotte
Leon Hooks says
My sincere condolences to his family. He was one of my favorite teachers ever! And a great friend. Will be truly missed. Hey Cosmo we want to run to McDonald’s gone need the keys to the El Camino! RIP. Class of ‘74
Traci Shepherd says
My condolences to the family. Mr. Mizell was a very kind teacher who was one of the reason I was able to graduate the same year I had my first child. My thoughts and prayers are with the family.
Richard Ogburn says
My condolences to the family. I remember all the fun we had @ the DECA socials and Turkey shoots he treated all of his students likd family. He will be missed.
Brenda (Turner) Estes says
My condolences to Brenda and the families of Mr. Mizell. Brenda and I were good friends and used to have fun together. May your faith carry you through.
Bryan and Shannon Harper says
Our prayers and sympathy go to your family in this time. Arlen was a positive influence on the many lives he touched; including ours, and he will leave a lasting legacy of the importance of service to others. Rest in Peace.
Ann Mixson says
Brenda, Stacy and Laura,
Deepest sympathy to all the family. Arlen was such a big presence wherever he was. It was always good to see him and he always brought a smile to my face. Love to all.
David Odom says
My condolences to the family and friends of Coach Mizell. He was my coach of baseball at Apopka Memorial High School in the late 1960’s. Good times, goog memories. I know he was loved and will be missed.