Hiroko “Misa” Mitchem, 81, passed away peacefully on March 19, 2026. Born in Okinawa, Japan, and having arrived in Mathews, Virginia, in 1974, Misa lived a life defined by resilience, grace, and an abiding love for her family across the ocean and at home.

She is survived by her devoted husband, James R. Mitchem; her sons, Jeremy (Lani) and Wesley (Beth); and her four cherished grandchildren, Colby, Alyssa, Mason, and Luke. She also leaves behind many beloved family members in her home country of Japan.

She will be remembered for her quiet strength and the immense pride she took in her children and grandchildren. Her legacy of love remains with us all. A special thanks to the Sweet Memories staff at Commonwealth Senior Living at Gloucester House and Riverside Hospice for the compassionate care provided during these past months.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, March 27, 2026, at 1 p.m. at Faulkner Funeral Homes, Foster-Faulkner Chapel, Mathews, with a reception following in the Gwynn’s Island Baptist Church Fellowship Hall. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Mathews Volunteer Fire Department, P.O. Box 1130, Mathews, Va. 23109, or Mathews Volunteer Rescue Squad, 94 Cricket Hill Road, Hudgins, Va. 23076.