Gennis “Kirby” Mitchem, age 65, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, November 11, 2025 at Richmond Hill Assisted Living in Asheville. Kirby was born on Tuesday, January 26, 1960 to the late Robert Lee Mitchem and Anna Belle Mitchem.
In addition to his parents, Kirby was preceded in death by his brother, Robert Mitchem Jr. and sisters Roxanna Mitchem, Penny Mitchem.
Those left to cherish Kirby’s memory are his ex wife, Tina Mitchum; stepson, Daniel Michael; grandson, Gabriel Michael; granddaughter, Graca Michael; brother, Tommy Mitchem; niece, Jeannie Bandy; three nieces; one nephew, ten great nieces and nephews; and four great-great nieces and nephews.
A private burial will be held at Forest Lawn Cemetery.
The Johnston family has entrusted funeral arrangements to Drum Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Conover, NC.
