Alvin Melchi Mitchem

The man, the myth, the legend, passed away peacefully in his sleep on February 28th, 2026 with his loved ones by his side.
Born Jan 15th 1940 in Gastonia NC, Alvin was the true definition of what strength, love and compassion truly means. He fought a hard battle with cancer but never let it slow him down. Often quoting “I’m tough” and “bad to the bone.” He loved everyone dearly and was always willing to help anyone in need. In his younger years, he worked as a painter and often as a small engine repair man. He tinkered with just about anything from lawnmowers to washing machines but if you needed it fixed he’d find a way to fix it. He enjoyed fishing, pecan picking, bottle hunting and a was collector of many things. He was a man of nature who loved being outside, loved animals and feeding the wild life. Often speaking of his Native Indian heritage in the outdoors. He was a man who loved “Yuns All” and family was most important to him.

Alvin is proceeded in death by his parents: Oscar and Ida May Mitchem, loving wife: Hilda Franklin Mitchem, siblings: Clyde, Sally, Bill, Bob and Frank; daughter Elizabeth “Libby” Isenhouer; and two grandsons: Dewayne Richard and Jimmy Dale Isenhouer.

Alvin is survived by his daughters: Toni-Kay Chapman of Gastonia, NC, Lisa Bradshaw (Tommy) of Kings Mountain, NC, Sherry Richard Carver (Red) of Springwood, NC and Misty Welch Davis (Brente) of York, SC; son: Franklin Eugene Mitchem; and
12 grandchildren, numerous great and great-great grandchildren and nieces and nephews. He loved “Yuns All”.

A celebration of life will be held at Woodlawn Funeral Home on Friday, March 6th 2026. Visitation from 1p-2p and funeral 2p followed by graveside service at Hillcrest Gardens Cemetery Mt. Holly NC.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Alvin Melchi Mitchem, please visit our floral store.