Sarah B. Mitchell

Sarah Mitchell Obituary Sarah Bernice Mitchell was born on November 28, 1932, in Chesapeake, Virginia, to the late Reverend Robert and Estelle Brown. She was the second oldest of her 15 siblings. Sarah was introduced to Jesus Christ and the church community as a child by her late Father. Sarah is a graduate of I.C. Norcom High School, where she excelled in all subjects allowing her to graduate early at the age of 16. After completing high school, she discovered and perfected her gift and craft as a seamstress, making garments and providing alterations for those that had a need. Her skills were those of great procession and excellence, enabling her to earn enough additional income to enroll at Norfolk State University (NSU). During Sarah’s time at NSU, she completed all core courses and worked towards obtaining a bachelor’s degree in Home Economics. She was also a member of the NSU Majorette Team, an appointment that she was very proud of and served with honor. In addition, she worked part-time hours in the Universities cafeteria and was able to pick up several skills in food preparation. Sarah completed two years at the university. However, it was at the university that she met her late husband, James G. Mitchell. The two married in 1953 and immediately relocated to Cleveland, Ohio. Upon arrival, Sarah was offered a position as a seamstress with Prince Beet Imus, a clothing manufacturing located in downtown Cleveland, Ohio. After a short tenure, Sarah decided to return home and become a full-time mother. Her marriage union of 46 years was blessed with two sons, Dexter G. Mitchell (deceased), Brett L. Mitchell; and daughter, Breen’a B. (Mitchell) Means. Sarah was active in her neighborhood block club committee and served in many roles for her children’s Parent Teacher Association (PTA) at each school that her children attended. Sarah also spent hours tutoring children in her home to improve essential reading and math skills. After seeing her children through their formative years, Sarah returned to work for the Cleveland Public School System, serving in food services for elementary and middle schools. After demonstrating her level of competence and leadership skills, she was promoted to supervisor and then manager serving in that capacity for the duration. After 25 years, Sarah retired from the school system and committed herself to help others through volunteer work and family and friends’ activities. Sarah enjoyed being outdoors and had a love for nature that was second to none. She was a gifted gardener with a green thumb and could bring any plant to life and giving it a place to thrive. Her home was always filled with growing greenery and budding flowers from various plants. Sarah was also actively involved in Alcoholics Anonymous, a 12-step recovery program. She served as a mentor, counselor, and speaker for many occasions. Her involvement allowed her to travel domestically and internationally. Over the years Sarah developed an interest in sports. Win, lose or draw she never gave up on her Cleveland Indians. Sarah was formerly a member of East Mt. Zion Baptist Church. During her recent years, she became a member of Affinity Missionary Baptist Church; however, the decline of her health prevented her from fully serving in her capacities of grace. Sarah experienced many joys in life. However, her greatest joy was her family and anything that they were connected to. She leaves to celebrate her life, her son, Brett L. Mitchell, daughter, Breen’a Mitchell-Means; grandson, Stephen Means I; Son -n- Law, Stephen Means II; brothers, Alvin E. Brown, Melton C. Brown, Victor A. Brown; sisters, Doris V. Daughtry, Maria A. Smith, Estelle L. Jones, Ramallah Mann; and a host of nieces, nephews and wonderful friends. In Love and Light, The Family To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Sarah B. Mitchell, please visit our floral store. Read More

Sarah B. Mitchell

November 28, 1932 - April 11, 2020