Barbara Ann Mitchell, born June 8, 1937, in Baltimore, Maryland, was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and treasured friend to many. Her life was marked by unwavering faith, a servant’s heart, and a deep love for her family.
Barbara was a longtime member of First Baptist Church of Russellville, where she faithfully sang in the choir, participated in the FBC Ensemble, and shared her beautiful voice as a soloist. Her love for music was inseparable from her love for the Lord, and she found great joy in singing and speaking about Jesus Christ.
Professionally, Barbara was known as a former manager and partner of Golden Corral Steakhouse in Russellville, where she built lasting friendships and touched countless lives through her warmth and generosity.
Barbara’s happy places were her back porch and the beaches of Gulf Shores, Alabama. Family vacations to Gulf Shores became a cherished tradition, creating memories that will live on for generations.
She had a gift for making a house feel like a home. Barbara loved decorating, cooking, and entertaining family and friends. Whether preparing a meal, hosting a gathering, or simply sharing conversation, she made everyone feel welcomed and loved.
Above all else, Barbara adored her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She was a proud and devoted Nana whose love, encouragement, and prayers left an enduring impact on the lives of those she cherished.
While her family will remember many things about her—the songs she sang, the meals she prepared, the beautiful spaces she created, and the memories made at the beach—they will remember most her passionate pursuit of Jesus Christ. Her faith was the foundation of her life and the legacy she leaves behind.
Barbara’s example of love, grace, and devotion to God will continue to inspire all who knew her. Though she will be deeply missed, her family finds comfort knowing she is in the presence of the Savior she loved so dearly.
Barbara leaves to cherish her memories, her husband of 52 years Harold Mitchell, children, Steve Sheppard (Sandy), Paul Sheppard (Kim), Mark Sheppard (Cindy), Jennifer Woods (Robert), and Melissa Hanson (Scott); grandchildren, Blake, Jacob, Christopher, Montana, Savanna, Daylee, Macy, Matthew, Will and Sam; great-grandchildren, Knox, Nora Kate, Kannon, Logan, Sevi, Sway, Blakely, Scottland, Oliver, Reese, Emma and Sawyer. And a host of friends.
“Well done, good and faithful servant.” Matthew 25:23.
A service will be held at Russellville First Baptist Church on Friday, July 3, 2026. Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. followed by the service @ 1:00 p.m. officiating the service Bro. Chase Dowdy.
In Lieu of flowers the family ask that you make a donation to Russellville Frist Baptist Church Choir.
