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Barbara Jean Mitchell, age 81, of Lumberton, Texas, passed away on June 6, 2026.
Born on August 22, 1944, to Able Thomas Langham and Violet Marie Coffey Langham, Barbara lived a life defined by faith, family, generosity, and love. She was preceded in death by her parents and beloved husband of 58 years, Kenneth Leon Mitchell.
Barbara was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend. Family was the center of her world and the passion of her life. For more than 40 years, she faithfully gathered her family around her table on Sundays, preparing lunch and creating a place where everyone felt welcome, loved, and at home. There was always room at Barbara’s table for one more person, and countless friends, neighbors, and family members were blessed by her hospitality and exceptional cooking. No one ever left her home hungry, and everyone who walked through her door was treated like family.
A woman of strong faith, Barbara loved her church family and found strength and joy in her relationship with God. Her faith was evident in the way she cared for others, opened her home, and lived her life with grace and compassion. Barbara found happiness in both simple pleasures and treasured traditions. She loved cheering on the Houston Astros, spending time in the mountains of Colorado, casting a fishing line on the water, and creating a beautiful home. Her house was always thoughtfully decorated, warm, and inviting—a reflection of the care and love she poured into everything she did. She especially cherished spending time playing cards and games with her sister and best friend, creating memories filled with laughter, friendly competition, and companionship.
She is survived by her sister, Jo Shelton, and her brother, Virgil Langham. She leaves behind her children: Deanna Young and husband, Dusty; Renee Rountree and son-in-law, Gene Rountree; and Timothy Mitchell. Barbara was a proud and loving grandmother to Justin Mitchell; Tami Young; Jason Mitchell and wife Lacey; Andrea Morris and husband Ryan; Kate Newton and husband Matthew; and Jeffrey Rountree and wife Kati.
She was blessed with 13 cherished great-grandchildren: Daphne Bertram, Kylie Rivera, Emma Mitchell, Abigail Mitchell, Job Mitchell, Jett Ivy, Cruze Ivy, Cosette Newton, Finn Morris, València Newton, Benjamin Rountree, Elizabeth Rountree, Charlotte Rountree, and one great-great-grandson, Gattlin Rivera. To her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Ma (as she was affectionately known) was a source of unconditional love, encouragement, wisdom, and comfort. They adored her, and she treasured every moment spent with them.
Barbara’s legacy is one of faith, family, hospitality, and unwavering love. She had a remarkable gift for making people feel seen, welcomed, and valued. Whether gathered around her Sunday table, sitting in her living room, or sharing a conversation, those in her presence knew they were cared for. She leaves behind generations who are better because of her example and countless memories that will be cherished forever.
Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, June 13, 2026, and the funeral will immediately follow at 11:15 a.m.
Though her presence will be deeply missed, the love she shared, the traditions she established, and the family she nurtured will continue to live on in the hearts and homes of those who loved her.
“Well done, good and faithful servant.” Matthew 25:23
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to a new church plant in Houston, Texas. Barbara’s granddaughter, Kate Newton, and her husband, Matthew, are launching a new church this fall called The Way. Barbara faithfully supported her family, loved the Lord, and was passionate about seeing His Kingdom grow. It is fitting that her legacy continues through this new work. Donations may be made to support The Way at this link.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Barbara Jean (Langham) Mitchell, please visit our floral store.