Barbara "Bonnie" Pietsch Mitchell

Barbara "Bonnie" Pietsch Mitchell, a loving mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully in Greenville, South Carolina, on July 29, 2023, at the age of 85. Born on October 1, 1937, in Evanston, Illinois, Bonnie was the daughter of the late Richard "Dick" Francis Pietsch and Virginia Bayless (Knight) Pietsch.

Bonnie grew up on her beloved family farm in Crozet, Virginia, at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains. She cultivated her lifetime love for nature, gardening, and animals there. She carried these passions throughout her life, growing beautiful flowers, loving all animals, and taking cherished trips to Africa. After attending St. Anne’s Belfield School in Charlottesville, Bonnie graduated from Pine Manor College outside of Boston and then the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where she earned a degree in sociology. This education laid the foundation for her lifelong commitment to community service and volunteering in schools, churches, and local organizations. Sparked by her love of music and theater, Bonnie volunteered for many years with Greenville's Symphony Orchestra and Warehouse Theatre. Her love for the arts was infectious, and she often shared this passion with her family and friends, creating many cherished memories. Bonnie worked for the state employment office in her early years and for many years in retail.

Bonnie is survived by her three children, Brian Mitchell, Jim Mitchell, and Julie Mitchell Smart (Chris); six grandchildren, Madyson Mitchell, Campbell Mitchell, Alex Smart, Avery Smart, Chase Mitchell, and Kierstyn Mitchell; her brother, Rick Pietsch (Dee), and nephews Scott (Erin) and Miles (Heidi); her former husband of 50 years and father of their children, Charlie Mitchell; dear cousins and many close friends. Her family was her pride and joy, and she loved them with all her heart. Bonnie's love and kindness will continue to live on through her family.

Bonnie cared deeply for her many friends, and these relationships meant the world to her. From lifelong relationships to new connections with friends and staff at the Cascades Verdae, she was a friend to all, always ready with a kind word, warm smile, and helping hand. Her warmth and love brought joy to our world, and she will be well remembered and deeply missed by everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

Bonnie was a beacon of kindness and faith. A long-time member of Emmanuel Church in Greenwood, Virginia, and an active member of Christ Church in Greenville, her faith was a guiding force in her life, providing her with strength and resilience in times of adversity. In Bonnie’s passing, we remember and celebrate a life beautifully lived and a heart generously given. She’ll be forever remembered in the blooms of the flowers she loved, the melodies she enjoyed, and the love she shared. She will be missed beyond measure, her legacy forever inspiring us all. There will be a celebration of life at Cascades Verdae on August 10 and a graveside service at St. Paul’s Ivy Episcopal Church in Ivy, Virginia, on October 14, at 2 pm, followed by a reception in the Parish Hall. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to the Greenville Humane Society, 305 Airport Road, Greenville, SC, 29607, or the Elephant Sanctuary in TN at https://shop.elephants.com/fundraisers/barbara-bonnie-mitchell .