Mildred Musselman Barnett

It is with deep sorrow, profound gratitude, and love for a life well lived that we announce the passing of Mildred Musselman Barnett, who departed this world peacefully on October 16, 2026, at Good Samaritan Hospice House in Roanoke, Virginia.

Born on July 9, 1929, in the picturesque town of Christiansburg, Virginia, Mildred was the beloved daughter of the late Kyle and Maudie Musselman. She was a loving mother, cherished grandmother, caring sister, faithful friend, and a blessing to everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

Mildred's life was a testament to her unwavering devotion to her faith, her family, and her community. A dedicated member of Shawsville Congregational Holiness Church for 68 years, she actively participated in many church activities and faithfully served alongside her church family. Her steadfast faith was the foundation of her life, and her prayers brought comfort, encouragement, and strength to countless people throughout the years.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 55 years, Frank S. Barnett Jr., with whom she shared a beautiful life filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. Together they welcomed six children and built a legacy rooted in faith and family that continues through their ten grandchildren, seventeen great-grandchildren, and six great-great-grandchildren.

She was also preceded in death by her daughter, Carol Wimmer; grandchildren Stacey Bell, Melissa Bell, Angel Hull, and Denise Mount Musselman; and her siblings Stella Barton, Violet Gerberich, Doris Gills, Jessie Musselman, and Robert Musselman Jr.

Mildred leaves behind a family who will forever cherish her memory: her children, Shirley Trimble (the late Pete), Frank F. Barnett (Serilla), Judy Mount (the late Denny), Donna Sawyers (Howard), and Joyce Woods (Clark); her son-in-law, Eddie Wimmer; her grandchildren, Timothy Wimmer (Mary), Christopher Wimmer (Lori), Adam Woods (Tammy), Joseph Woods (Holly), Daniel Woods, Jacob Woods, and Christina Wilson (Gary); her great-grandchildren, Blake Wimmer, Brice Wimmer, Georgia Ray Wimmer, Maxwell Wimmer, Katie Harris, Seth Bell, Hilary Palmer (Caleb), Trey Wilson, Mackenzie Mount, Brady Musselman, Zion Sawyers, Darin Hull, Laynie Woods, Megan Wright (Nick), Christian Woods (Hannah), Jeff Woods (Faith), Kaitie McAmis (Isaiah), Levi Woods, and Kadyn Woods; great-great grandchildren; Ashlyn Bell, Grayson Mount Russ, River Mount Russ, Wrenley Harvey, Camden Palmer and Jamie Wright. She is also survived by her dear sisters, Thelma Gilmore and Myrtle Linkous.

Mildred is a woman of remarkable strength, determination, and resilience. She was known for her candid nature, strong work ethic, and unwavering commitment to her family. Throughout her life, she held a variety of roles, including working at Blue Ridge Overall Factory, serving as a Certified Nursing Assistant at Brookmead Retirement Home, and owning and operating Millie's Grocery Store and Millie's Flea Market. Yet, of all her accomplishments, the role she valued most was that of mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She took great pride in raising her children and played an integral role in the lives of all her grandchildren.

Her adventurous spirit led her to travel throughout all 50 states and to many parts of the world, including Canada, Mexico, Russia, Italy, France, England, Wales, Scotland, Central America, and the Caribbean Islands. Despite her many travels and experiences, her heart always remained firmly rooted in her faith, her family, and her hometown community.

Her family will receive friends on Monday, October 19, 2026, from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. at Horne Funeral Home in Christiansburg, Virginia.

A service to honor and celebrate Mildred's life will be held on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Shawsville Congregational Holiness Church.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to Shawsville Congregational Holiness Church in Shawsville, Virginia, in Mildred's memory.

The family extends their heartfelt appreciation to Melissa Large for her unwavering support, companionship, and care during Mildred's times of need. They also express sincere gratitude to the staff of Good Samaritan Hospice House and Carilion New River Valley Medical Center for the exceptional compassion and care they provided. Special thanks are extended to Pastor Wes Conner, Ryan Rose, Ed Gallimore, and the many friends from church and the community whose love and friendship enriched Mildred's life.

Mildred's legacy of faith, love, strength, and devotion to family will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. The countless memories she created and the lives she touched will continue to inspire future generations. Though she will be deeply missed, the example she set through her kindness, perseverance, and unwavering faith will never be forgotten.