Willis Randall Mitchen
Willis Randall Mitchen, 85 of Huddleston, passed away Monday, February 16, 2026 at his residence. He was born on Wednesday, July 31, 1940 in Huddleston, a son of the late Fred Lathan Mitchen and Celestia Estelle "Essie" Howell Mitchen.
Willis was without debate, the best father and "Poppy" ever - a dearly loved man who left fingerprints on countless lives and probably a few tomato stakes too. Humble to his core, he never sought the spotlight, though it often found him anyway. A man of many talents, he sang for twelve joyful years with the Palestine Baptist Quartet, recording four albums and lifting spirits wherever harmony was needed. Music was only one way he connected with people; friendship was his true gift, and he shared it generously. He was also known for mowing the grass THE RIGHT WAY - in carefully planned patterns, straight lines only, no shortcuts, and absolutely no missed strips. To him, a well-mowed yard was a matter of pride and principle, much like everything else he did.
Athletic from an early age, he still holds the Huddleston High School basketball record with an impressive 2,000 career points - proof that determination and heart go a long way. When not cheering on this favorite race car, you could find him teaching, mentoring, fishing, hunting, or tending to his garden, where his tomatoes were as legendary as his stories.
Above all, he was a solid Christian man and a devoted father who lived his faith quietly but consistently. He taught by example - showing his family what it means to love, serve, work hard, and do right even when no one was watching.
A great teacher in life, he showed others how to work hard, laugh often, stay grounded, and always make time for what matters most. He lived fully, loved deeply, and leaves behind a legacy of faith, family, friendship, and a whole lot of good memories.
He will be remembered in every hymn sung and every story shared, in basketball gyms and baseball fields, with each shot taken and every ball tossed, on quiet fishing banks, and in gardens where tomatoes grow strong and steady - just like him.
He is survived by his devoted wife of sixty-five years, Nancy Overstreet Mitchen; his daughters, Sheila M. Page (Frank), Sabrina M. McCarty (Chris), Selinda M. Tolley (Sean); his grandchildren, Willis Page, Caleb Page, Sawyer Ann Tolley and Spencer Tolley; his sister, Carolyn Goin & a special friend, Cathy Eggleston.
Special thanks to his caregivers, Crystal Howell, Yolanda Garlough, Allison Spradlin, Eva Irvin for the wonderful care.
We are having his Memorial service this Sunday, February 22, 2026 at momma and daddy's house, 4510 Smith Mountain Lake Parkway, Huddleston, VA 24104. Visitation will start at 2:00 and the service will start at 4:00. We will be offering time for those that choose to share their special times they had with Daddy. Casual dress... jeans, camouflage and/or flannel...his go to attire. There will be a meal after the service. We are asking you to bring a side dish or a dessert if possible. Fried chicken and beverages will be provided. Parking will be across the road in the Huddleston Parkway Church and also in Huddleston Elementary School parking lot. A "shuttle" will be provided to transport those unable to walk over to the house. In the event of inclement weather we will move the service to the Huddleston Parkway Church.
In lieu of flowers we are asking for donations to be made to the Huddleston Fire Department, P. O. Box 436, Huddleston, VA 24104 in Daddy's honor. We hope to see you all there to celebrate our amazing father's life.
Arrangements are being handled by Updike Funeral Home & Cremation Service
