On Wednesday, January 12, 2021, Barry Mark Mitchem, left his home here on earth to be reunited with his beloved wife, Ann, in Heaven. He was a devoted family man, and life's simplicities brought him much joy. Being a proud grandfather to five grandchildren, you could occasionally find him sitting on the sidelines or in the bleachers cheering them on to victory. His favorite place to be was home tending to his tomatoes during the summer, slicing fresh watermelon, or just soaking up the sun on his side porch as he pleasantly talked to his neighbors as they'd walk by on a warm, summer day. Upon his retirement from Shepherd's Auto Supply, he dabbled in his gift of woodworking, and there is no doubt that his kind, gentle spirit will forever live on in the legacy he leaves behind.

Family members that are left to cherish the memories are daughter, Kimberly Mitchem Chitwood and husband, Ricky Lynn Chitwood; son, Michael Barry Mitchem and wife, Paige Maze Mitchem; brother-in-law, John Hamilton. He also leaves behind five grandchildren, who will forever be grateful for all the moments spent together from beach trips to bike rides and holidays. They are Lynn Mitchem Chitwood, Madison Ann Chitwood, Tyler Evan Mitchem, Bryson Hart Mitchem, and Emery Grace Mitchem. Barry is also survived by some other wonderful people that he always considered family. Kevin and Patty Maze, Lindsay and Teddy Polfelt and children, Natalie, Taylor, and Ryland. They've each experienced a beautiful life with Barry and have many memories and stories to share.

The family would also like to thank a few other important people. To the nurses and staff at Friendship Health and Rehab Center South, your kindness, generosity, and patience are appreciated as you were his caregivers during his final days as family couldn't be by his bed to hold his hand due to restrictions from Covid. You provided him comfort, answered many questions, showed much love, and held the phone as final goodbyes were said. You are true heroes. Finally, to the neighbors of Barry. You were his friends, looked after each other, and were always a light and willing to lend an ear. Your dedication and friendship meant a lot to Barry and the family.

Barry may now rest in peace. The family will hold a private, graveside burial at Franklin Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to Valley United Soccer Club, P.O. Box 20045, Roanoke, VA 24018, where he enjoyed watching his grandkids play soccer.