Roy B. Mitchem: Remembering a Dedicated Family Man and Hero

Roy B. Mitchem, 79, of Connersville

Roy B. Mitchem, 79, of Connersville, passed away Saturday morning, February 7, 2026, at Heritage House.

Whitewater Valley Voice February 9, 2026

Roy B. Mitchem, 79, of Connersville, passed away Saturday morning, February 7, 2026, at Heritage House.

One of the children of Homer B. and Ada “Lizzy” E. Bergen Mitchem, Roy was born on August 18, 1946, in Crumpler, West Virginia.

On June 28, 1969, Roy was united in marriage in First United Methodist Church to the former Vivian Cregor. Together, they shared over 56 years of marriage and raised their family in the Fayette County area.

Roy was a man of strong work ethic, serving as a factory worker for National Metal and Randal Textron for over 20 years. Deeply committed to his community, he joined the Bentonville Volunteer Fire Department in 1972. His dedication to service was a hallmark of his life, and he was the proud recipient of a 50-year award of service from the station.

In his leisure time, Roy was an avid outdoorsman who found peace and joy in the woods and on the water. He spent many years squirrel, rabbit, and ginseng hunting, and he also enjoyed trapping and fishing.

Survivors include his wife, Vivian Mitchem; a daughter, Cheryl “Renee” (William) Beach of Connersville; a daughter-in-law, Catrina Mitchem; a sister, Wilma (Wayne) Hughes of Connersville; and a brother, Melvin (Marsha) Mitchem of Connersville. He was the proud grandfather of Chris (Elizabeth) Mitchem, Kasia Beach, Kalissa Beach, Grace Merida, and Joe Merida; and the great-grandfather of Gabriel, Levi, Dixon, and Wyatt Mitchem, and Callie, Emma, and Mila Solomon. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Roy was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Roy “Michael” Mitchem; his twin sister, Ruthann Mitchem; and a nephew, Jarrod Sparks.

Family and friends may visit from 4:00 p.m. until the time of service at 6:00 p.m. on Monday, February 16, 2026, at Miller, Moster, Robbins Funeral Home. Roy’s grandson, Levi Mitchem will officiate.

Memorial contributions may be made to Bentonville Fire Department or the Fayette County Animal Shelter, and online condolences may be made anytime at millermosterrobbins.com.