Popularity of Security Guard Who Died at Manchester High School Reflected in Tributes: Official

MANCHESTER, CT — The popularity of Barry "Mitch" Mitchell at Manchester High School was reflected by just who attended a Wednesday night vigil commemorating his life, a school system official said.

"It was like the night before Thanksgiving at the Main Pub," said Jim Farrell, the attendance and communications director and the safe school climate coordinator for the Manchester system. "There may have been more alumni at the vigil than current students and that shows the impact Mitch had here."

Mitchell worked at Manchester High School for 18 years as a security guard. He died Wednesday morning after having what police described as a medical emergency on campus.

"In his position, he had a lot of interaction with a lot of students," Farrell said. "He did his job, but he was also well-liked."

School officials on Thursday morning had not yet received any funeral information for Mitchell.

The mood at MHS Thursday was "somber," Farrell said. Counseling was available to students, faculty and staff members and therapy dogs had been brough in to comfort those who were mourning the loss of Mitchell, he said.

Extra substitutes were brought in for teachers needing a break during the day, Farrell said.

Manchester police Sgt. James Bairos, the supervisor of school resource officers, said Mitchell had a medical issue after he reported to work. After he collapsed, paramedics transported Mitchell to Manchester Memorial Hospital, where he was pronounced dead, police said.

"He was a great guy, loved and respected by everyone," Bairos said. "The kids just loved him. This is a huge loss for all of us."

Superintendent of Schools Matt Geary released the following statement Wednesday afternoon:

"We are all terribly saddened by the loss of Barry 'Mitch’ Mitchell,' a security guard at Manchester High School for the past 18 years. Mitch was truly a beloved part of the high school staff and was widely respected by everyone — especially students. Over his career he interacted with literally thousands of students and often had to tell them things that they didn’t want to hear — to get back in line in the cafeteria, or to hurry to class, or to show him a hall pass.

"That sort of role doesn’t always make you popular, but students universally liked and respected Mitch, because he treated everyone with patience and dignity. Whether it was in the hallways, or at a sporting event, or at a dance, when Mitch was around you just felt safe.

"Our school and community are stronger, better places because of him, and he will be sorely missed. We are grateful for all Mitch did to impact the lives of so many students and staff and our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this time."

Photo Credit: Manchester Public Schools