Winfred Vincent Mitchener

Winfred Vincent Mitchener passed away on November 4, 2025, at the age of 62. A devoted, loving husband, proud father, dedicated family member, and loyal friend, he leaves behind a legacy of honor,strength, and compassion.

Born in Smithfield, North Carolina, Winfred’s foundation of service began early in life. As a child, he accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior and was deeply involved in his church community, serving faithfully on the Usher Board and singing in the choir. He loved working in the tobacco fields and would always share stories about his time on the farm with folks. He also found lifelong lessons in teamwork and discipline through sports as a dual athlete who played both football and baseball.

As a young man, Winfred answered the call to serve his country with pride and dedication. He served honorably in the United States Marine Corps for six years, achieving the rank of Sergeant. His service included a distinguished assignment in Okinawa, Japan, and was marked by leadership, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to his fellow Marines.

It was during this era that Winfred first became a husband and father. While his union with Maria Odom (nee Brown) was brief, it resulted in the birth of his cherished son, DeMarco Mitchener, who was the light of his life. Being a devoted father was Winfred’s greatest joy. He embraced it with tenderness, pride, and unwavering commitment. Alongside Maria, a foundation of respect, strength, integrity, kindness, and the love of Christ was established that DeMarco carries forward. Winfred cherished everymoment he and DeMarco spent together, particularly their road trips from Maryland to North Carolina. Following his military service, Winfred’s new chapter in life led him to continue serving his community as a corrections officer at the District of Columbia Jail, followed by 27 years of dedicated work with the United States Postal Service in Bethesda, Maryland. Known for his reliability and kindness, he built lasting relationships with colleagues and customers alike. It was during this time that he met Brenda, thewoman who would become his beloved wife of 23 years. Their union was built on unwavering love, kindness, and support for each other. Brenda was his confidante, his greatest cheerleader, and the love of his life who stood by his side through every chapter of his journey.

In addition to Brenda and DeMarco, Winfred is survived by his parents, Clifton Mitchener and Mary Frances (Johnson) Mitchener; his two brothers, Erick and Lindbergh, who will remember Winfred as a source of strength, laughter and inspiration; his aunts, Alice Faye Dixon, Carol Johnson, Rose Johnson, Glenna Jean Mitchener, and Sarah Williams; his uncle, Glenwood Johnson; his father-in-law Gulfrey Hairston; his brothers-in-law, Eric West (Leeann), and Franklin West (Sandra); his sister-in-law Edith West; his nieces Emoni Mitchener, Erin Conte (Kirsten), Jazmin West, Erica Brickett (Kennyot), Leah Mitchener, Eniyah Mitchener, and Ella West; his nephews Franklin West III (HeaJin), Joshua West (Lour’des), Antoine West II (Janelle), Donavin West, Noah Belingg-West and Aiden Belingg-West; and a host of treasured cousins, family members and friends. Winfred will be remembered for his warmth, humor, and generous spirit. His memory will continue to be honored by all who had the privilege of knowing him.