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Paulena Mitchell Obituary
Paulena (Polly) F. Mitchell
Polly Mitchell, born on September 8, 1941, died peacefully on April 14, 2013. She was a kind, talented, intelligent, courageous, and loving person. Her uncommon generosity of spirit inspired her family and friends throughout her life. She set an example of how each person might strive to live.
A Memorial Service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 27, at Episcopal Church of Reconciliation, 8900 Starcrest. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made either to Vitas Hospice, or American Autoimmune Related Diseases Association, 22100 Gratiot Avenue, East Detroit, MI 48021.
(For a more extensive obituary, please see the Sunday, 4/21, San Antonio Express News.)
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Paulena Mitchell
Lynette Poss
April 15, 2019
I miss you, Polly. You were a very special teacher and friend.
Stan Thomas
April 30, 2013
We have had the pleasure of living in the same neighborhood, Turkey Point for many years. Her pleasant smile and friendliness will be missed. We already miss seeing her putt around the area on her electric scooter walking Toby her little dog. Please rest in peace Polly and tell my mom hello for me. your friends in Turkey Point Stan & Kathy and Salvador who is still looking for you.
Lynette Poss
April 27, 2013
Such beautiful words about Polly; they really capture her very essence. I loved teaching next door to her at Colonial Hills. It was also my treat to see her play Katishaw and Buttercup. Such talent and enthusiasm. One of her special talents was bringing a large crowd of children to order by using signs. It was like magic watching the children, two or three at a time, begin to mimic her, wordlessly, until the room was entirely quiet. And she herself never had to say a word. We also took in a vocal performance or two together. I knew Polly was always up to go see some musical program I wanted company for.
Pamela Bronson
April 27, 2013
I was one of the many people who had the privilege of teaching with Polly at Montgomery Elementary. She was truly one of the best teachers ever and will be missed not only by her family but other close associates. Her positive attitude and love of music will long be remembered. Pam Bronson
JAMES SMITH
April 27, 2013
Polly and I met in Weisbaden, Germany in 1980. She taught at the US DOD Elementary School in the Hainnerburg\Wiesbaden US military housing area, and I worked at 7th Finance Section at the Weisbaden US Army Air Base. We saw each other on Sundays at brunch at the Officer's Club in Wiesbaden. I left Germany in May 1982 and retired from active duty in December 1983. We connected again in February 1993, when my wife, Joanne, and I joined the San Antonio Choral Society. Polly has always been a loyal and caring friend to my wife and I and we will miss her. "WHAT A LADY, TEACHER, FRIEND, AND ANGEL WITH A GOLDEN VOICE." James and Joanne
Mary Quijano
April 26, 2013
I taught with Polly at Montgomery Elementary. She was a true educator with a gentle spirit who always had an interesting story and encouraging words to share. I was also able to enjoy her talents at a musical production she was in. Polly really did make the world a better place. My thoughts and prayers go out to her family.
Susan Hall
April 24, 2013
Polly was such a wonderful lady and teacher! I loved her from the moment I met her at Montgomery Elementary. She was a joy to work with and be around...and there was always something wonderful to learn from her. Our students might have been from poor families but after being with Polly they knew goodness and hope. We all loved her.
Raul Fernandez
April 24, 2013
Hi Maren: just want to let you know how sorry I am due to the loss of you mother. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Faye Jarrell
April 24, 2013
I taught with Polly at Montgomery Elem. School. I wish I had known then that her name was Paulena because I could have had a little inside joke with her and she would have loved it and teased me right back. Polly was a courageous woman and a joy to know.She inspired me to count my blessings.
Nicole Morgan
April 22, 2013
Aunt Polly, you left us too soon! I have many fond memories of our visits to San Antonio, however, meeting you, Uncle Bobby, and Maren in Weisbaden during my highschool graduation trip was an awesome memory.
Maren, you have endured so much and I wish you much love and strength in the days to come. My sisters will be at the services, and I will be there in spirit. xoxo Your cousin, Nicole
the Hoopers
April 22, 2013
Beautiful written memory of Polly's fantastic life!
Jill
April 22, 2013
I know your dear lunch friends will keep a place for you at the table and in their hearts. Polly you are an inspiration!!
John Bridges
April 22, 2013
It was my pleasure to know Polly when I sang with the Mastersingers. She was a valuable member of the chorus, and her dealings with people were always friendly and positive.
Jerome Malek
April 22, 2013
Polly was one of the most beautiful people I ever knew. Being around her lighted up my life. She will be dearly missed.
Frank Gentner
April 21, 2013
Poly was always kind and hospitable to Diane and me. She and her husband Bob entertained us graciously in their two San Antonio homes over the years while we were living in San Antonio off and on. Having dinner at the Mitchell's was a gourmet delight! A very pleasant person who went out of her way to help others she will be missed.
April 21, 2013
Polly's light will continue to shine, showing us all what it means to model Christ. She blessed us all - and we are the richer for having known her. What a joy to know that she is whole and well now, and has seen the face of God!
Pam Hackett
April 21, 2013
I met Polly when I was transferred to Montgomery. She was a delightful person and always upbeat and happy. She never had a bad thing to say about anyone, especially the children she taught. It was a tough school and we all had challenges. Polly handled her class respectfully and with joy. It was a privilege to have known her.
Laurie Marrero
April 21, 2013
Polly and I were teaching buddies. She never had a bad word to say about anybody and always, always had a song in her heart. Whenever there was a need, she would be right there to help you out AND with a smile. She was very intelligent, loving, wise and an outstanding teacher. She always went the extra mile with making sure her students had fun while they were learning. When she spoke about her daughter, Marin, it was always with fondness and admiration.
Tira Seeley
April 21, 2013
I had the privilege of making music with Polly in the San Antonio Choral Society. She was always a gracious and joyful presence; I am glad her spirit is at peace.
Gustavo Rios, Jr.
April 21, 2013
On behalf of the San Antonio Choral Society, thank you for your dedication, many years of service, and for sharing your gift with the San Antonio community. Most of all, thank you for being my friend and providing me with a wealth of leadership knowledge. Peace be with you and your family.
Valerie Franklin
April 21, 2013
Ms. Polly, May God Bless You Always! You were a Great friend of mom's, Veronica Gonzales. You will truly be missed! Victory is Yours! Always, Valerie Gonzales Franklin
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