Obituary for Kurt Ray Mitchell
Kurt Ray Mitchell, 61, of Moneta, VA, and formerly of Salem and Charlotte, NC, passed away on Thursday, January 5, 2023. He was born on July 17, 1961, in Roanoke, VA, to the late William “Bill” and Frances Bane Mitchell.
From the time that Ray began to toddle around, he was drumming. During his high school years, his talent really began to shine as part of the Pride of Salem Marching Band – he also began drumming for various bands when he was 15 years old. Over the years, he was part of many albums as part of bands such as the Rhythm Doctors, The Kings, Rank Outsiders, and the Brother Dave Band. Ray played for greats such as James Taylor and opened for Little Feat, among others. Ray felt most at home in his blue jeans and cut-off shirts. He never met a stranger and could strike up a conversation with anybody, anywhere. He had a big heart and would do anything for anybody he felt had a need.
Those left to cherish his memory are his loving partner, Lisa Kern Carter; son, Luke William Mitchell and wife, Leena; daughter, Amy Mitchell Smith and husband, Michael; grandchildren, Paisley Ann Smith, Bo Smith, Bella Mitchell, and Zayne Mitchell, due to be born on January 10; brother, Earl Hixon Mitchell and wife, Cheryl; sister, Denise Mitchell Francisco, as well as a special niece, Michelle Mitchell.
A Celebration of Life will be held later in March.
The family would like to express their sincerest gratitude to the staff of the 7th floor South at Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital, especially Carson, Brook, and Alexis, for the compassionate care given both to Ray and his family while in their care.
From the time that Ray began to toddle around, he was drumming. During his high school years, his talent really began to shine as part of the Pride of Salem Marching Band – he also began drumming for various bands when he was 15 years old. Over the years, he was part of many albums as part of bands such as the Rhythm Doctors, The Kings, Rank Outsiders, and the Brother Dave Band. Ray played for greats such as James Taylor and opened for Little Feat, among others. Ray felt most at home in his blue jeans and cut-off shirts. He never met a stranger and could strike up a conversation with anybody, anywhere. He had a big heart and would do anything for anybody he felt had a need.
Those left to cherish his memory are his loving partner, Lisa Kern Carter; son, Luke William Mitchell and wife, Leena; daughter, Amy Mitchell Smith and husband, Michael; grandchildren, Paisley Ann Smith, Bo Smith, Bella Mitchell, and Zayne Mitchell, due to be born on January 10; brother, Earl Hixon Mitchell and wife, Cheryl; sister, Denise Mitchell Francisco, as well as a special niece, Michelle Mitchell.
A Celebration of Life will be held later in March.
The family would like to express their sincerest gratitude to the staff of the 7th floor South at Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital, especially Carson, Brook, and Alexis, for the compassionate care given both to Ray and his family while in their care.