Richard Paul Mitchell

Richard, affectionately known as "Rick" passed away peacefully at the age of 78 years on February 12, 2026, at Bay Lake Retirement and Assisted Living Community with his wife, Marilyn and grandson, Sam by his side.

Rick was the son of military parents, Forrest and Paulette Mitchell. He grew up on several U.S. Navy bases throughout the United States of American. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Marine Biology from the University of Utah. Go Utes! At last settling in Virginia Beach, Virginia for 38 years with his beloved wife, Marilyn Barnes Mitchell.

After working in the marine biology field for several years, Rick found his true calling in the defense contracting business where he worked for Analysis and Technology. When A & T was sold, he ran a successful consulting business with the help of several of his friends. Lehman Woods, his dear friend, was one of his consultants and partners.

Rick enjoyed fixing things. The family affectionately nick named him "Mr. Fix It ". Among the things that Rick loved were golfing (with family and friends), drinking old scotch (the older the better), gambling (Las Vegas blackjack and craps tables), boating (pulling the kids tubing on Lake Joyce) traveling (to almost every state in the USA), collecting (anything old), and forever being "Grandpa Rick" to all his blessed grandchildren.

Left to cherish Rick's memory is his wife, Marilyn Barnes Mitchell. Son, Andrew Barnes, daughter, Wendy Collier, son, Geoffrey Mitchell (Kirsten), and daughter, Shelly Mitchell. Grandchildren, Hunter Collier, Emily Jackson, Julie Jackson, Sam Jackson, Harper Mitchell, Liv Mitchell, Aubrey Mitchell, Josh Rivera, James Carter, and Christopher Carter. Siblings, sister, Suzanne Mahoney (Rob), and brother, Smoot Carl-Mitchell (Charlotte). Nephew, Theron Stanford (Monica), niece, Dr. Emily Colson (Chris), nephew, Shawn Stanford (Barbara). Good friend, Lehman Woods (Pam).

We will miss you dearly Rick. You can stand at rest now. You have fulfilled your last Eagle Scout badge…taking care of your family. We love you. Thank you.

Cremation and Funeral Services of Tidewater is assisting Richard's family with the arrangements.