Mitchell's Light

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Mitchell's Light Empowerment and Resources through Education. We provide public education, public safety, and water awareness for search and recovery on the water.

In times of tragedy, the light still shines. Through our own personal experience, we saw a need. This need begins with compassion and education and leads to recovery and healing. Mitchell Don Gibson, age 27, a commercial fisherman from Starr SC, passed away on Sunday, March 13, 2016. A fisherman threw his last net that night, cast his last line, got his last bite

A fisherman wet his last hook that night, tied his last knot, turned on his last light

Commercial Fisherman, Mitchell Don Gibson went home to fish with the Master of the Sea on March 13, 2016. Mitchell was born in Greenville, SC on April 5, 1988, went missing on Lake Richard B Russell on March 13, 2016 and there his body remained until it was recovered on October 27, 2016 by the heart and dedication of Gene and Sandy Ralston. Mitchell had the heart and soul of a fisherman, a hunter and good old country boy and over the years, would tell you that when it was time for him to go home to the Lord, he wanted to go while fishing or hunting. During our search for Mitchell, we realized their was a tremendous gap in what could be done and what was done when it came to search and recovery of Mitchell. We took it upon ourselves to research what options were out there and who could utilize those resources. Waiting on him to surface, was NOT an option. Water recovery differs in EVERY case and education is the key component in ensuring that a family can gain the closure they deserve. Our goals are to bring the education, resources, capability and knowledge to the ones who answer the CALL. During this difficult time, we made contacts all over the United States that have the know how and can help in situations such as this and our goal is to pass along ALL knowledge and resources to families who are currently struggling to find the answers they so desperately need.

I hate having to share these stories…Our thoughts are with the family and loved ones grieving this loss on Lake Hartwell...
10/17/2026

I hate having to share these stories…

Our thoughts are with the family and loved ones grieving this loss on Lake Hartwell. 💛

As the seasons change and summer comes to an end, it’s important to remember that water safety matters year round. We know how deeply a life lost on the water impacts families and entire communities. We share these stories to honor those affected and continue raising awareness about the importance of water safety.

Please take care of yourselves and look out for each other! 💛

https://www.wyff4.com/article/man-dies-lake-hartwell-drowning/74163566?fbclid=IwdGRleAU_mRxleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBwZG9mBWZkaWQWUQZmlw0QYIk97XdGeBapQI-tcig0nXNydGMGYXBwX2lkCjY2Mjg1NjgzNzkAAR6uoqCiCq0rVyJZ7WB4GtpwXxH1dGXCrey_25YD58SWHZmvpdKl76D6Lihzyg_aem_L-kX2NmqNMWuRcVVCuRjrA

Officials in Anderson County, South Carolina, said a man died after being pulled from the water on Lake Hartwell.

Kelly & Jenny recently had the opportunity to spend some time with the Stephens County Search & Rescue Team sharing info...
09/29/2026

Kelly & Jenny recently had the opportunity to spend some time with the Stephens County Search & Rescue Team sharing information and continuing the conversation about water safety and drowning prevention.

We are incredibly grateful for those who are on the front lines when someone goes missing or an emergency happens on the water.

Education, preparation, and communication can make a difference. We’re proud to be able to have these conversations with the people who help our communities when they need it most.

Thank you to everyone who took the time to learn with us! 💛

Hey y’all! 💛Now is the time to mark your calendars for our annual Oyster Roast Fundraiser in memory of Mitchell Gibson! ...
09/15/2026

Hey y’all! 💛

Now is the time to mark your calendars for our annual Oyster Roast Fundraiser in memory of Mitchell Gibson! 🦪

Talk to anyone who’s been…this event is a GREAT time! All-you-can-eat oysters, unlimited b**r and w**e (21+), live music, raffles, and more!

Most importantly, all proceeds go toward supporting Mitchell’s Light and our mission to help bring people home.

Mitchell’s Light has donated sonar units, life jackets, and other resources to aid in water search and recovery efforts.

Be on the lookout for the official event flyer and more information coming soon!
Follow us and give this post a share to help spread the word and stay up to date! ☺️💛

09/15/2026
Knowing how to stay calm, knowing how to get out, and knowing what to do when something goes wrong can make all the diff...
09/14/2026

Knowing how to stay calm, knowing how to get out, and knowing what to do when something goes wrong can make all the difference.

Thankfully, this story had a good ending! 💛

Wisconsin Congressman Tom Tiffany escaped a sinking plane and swam to shallow water after an emergency landing in a lake. Tiffany and the pilot called 911 from on top of the plane.

Heartbreaking.Our hearts go out to Erick’s family, friends, and everyone involved in the search. There are so many unkno...
09/11/2026

Heartbreaking.

Our hearts go out to Erick’s family, friends, and everyone involved in the search.

There are so many unknowns in a tragedy like this, and it’s a reminder of how unpredictable and unforgiving water can be.

Sending love and prayers to all who knew Erick. 🕊️

A Clemson student's body was recovered from a lake after his kayak was found abandoned near a boat ramp, according to authorities in North Carolina.

Water Safety Wednesday 💛Because the best lake-day accessory is making sure everyone gets home safely 😉A little preparati...
09/09/2026

Water Safety Wednesday 💛

Because the best lake-day accessory is making sure everyone gets home safely 😉

A little preparation can go a long way when you’re spending a day around the water.

Consider this your sign to pack for the fun AND the unexpected ☀️ 🌊

Things that deserve a break this Labor Day weekend: 👇🏻🚤 The boat that’s been running all summer 🩴 The flip flops holding...
09/05/2026

Things that deserve a break this Labor Day weekend: 👇🏻

🚤 The boat that’s been running all summer

🩴 The flip flops holding on for dear life

☀️ Your sunscreen supply

🧠 Your brain after a long work week

🛟 Your buddy who says “I don’t need a life jacket” 👀

All jokes aside, we hope y’all have a good and safe weekend!

Water safety Wednesday 💛
09/02/2026

Water safety Wednesday 💛

09/01/2026

If someone you love disappeared today, what information would you wish you had readily available?

Their most recent photo? 📸
Vehicle information? 🚘
Friends they spend time with? 🧑‍🧑‍🧒‍🧒
Places they frequent? 🏞️

We don’t like to think about these things until we have to.

Take a few minutes today to make sure you have the basics documented for the people you love.

Tell us below 👇🏻
What would you add to the list? 💛

Address

Anderson, SC

Telephone

+1 864-844-3602

Website

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