Rowena Mitchell

1932 - 2021

Rowena Andrews Mitchell, a servant of the True and Living God, quietly went from life to eternal rest on Saturday, Nov. 27, 2021. Our beloved Rowena Andrews Mitchell, daughter of the late John Thomas and Pattie Merriwether Andrews, was born Aug. 19, 1932, in Creighton. At an early age, she accepted Jesus Christ as her personal Savior at Bethel AME in Tarentum. Rowena was a graduate of East Deer Frazier High School, Class of 1952. In her quest to follow her passion, she pursued a career in the medical field, where she served as a nurse's aide and supervisor of Central Supply at Citizen's General Hospital. She also served as a manager for Hart's Department Store where she later retired from her labor. Rowena's passion and deep love for her community and commitment to God led her to be an active member in her church. As a young adult, she worshipped the Lord through singing as a member of the Young Adult Choir at Bethel. She later became a deaconess at Vermont Baptist Church where she worshipped with her husband and children. At this branch of Zion, she served on the Lott Carrier Committee, Pearl People's Missionary, Willing Workers, Church Anniversary and Homecoming Committee, Men's and Women's Day Committee, Field Day Committee and the choir. Her love and gift for cooking and baking her specialty desserts led to her church designation as culinary artist. Rowena met the love of her life, McKinley C. Mitchell, affectionately known as her "Mitchell" and she as his "Honey Dew," and they married on Aug. 31, 1956. Their union was a match made in Heaven. They had such a cohesive relationship that was a true representation of a godly marriage. Together they built their family on spiritual values and principles centered on their love for Christ. Rowena was a woman of class and style with an impeccable work ethic, infinite curiosity and optimism. She was very active in various social organizations, including the Senior Citizen Center of New Kensington and Arnold. She was a pianist, seasoned traveler, puzzle master, crocheter and avid reader. She had a special place in her heart for all things beautiful, especially her family and grandchildren, who she cherished above all. She spent countless hours creating vibrant memories of special and momentous occasions. She lived a life full of strength and humility; her everlasting sweet spirit will forever live in the tender hearts of all who knew her. Rowena leaves to cherish her fond memories a devoted, loving husband and best friend of 64 years, McKinley C. Mitchell; her darling children, Billie J. Burke, Gloria A. Mitchell, Calvin D. Mitchell (Sheri D.) and Michele L. Mitchell-Collins (Joseph W.); beloved grandchildren, Rolanda A. Burke, Stephanie L. Patton, Alexis D. Hardy (K. Marco), Avery P. Mitchell, Sydney V. Mitchell, Warren J. Mitchell-Collins and Faith L. Mitchell-Collins; adored great-grandchildren, Milan, Alexandra, Kairo and Kenneth M. Jr.; and two sisters, Georgia Ellard (Arnette) and Hazel Green. Her siblings, Cornelius Andrews, Nellie Sharp and Charles "Brother" Andrews preceded her in death. Viewing will be held from 4 to 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 3, at ROSS G. WALKER FUNERAL HOME LTD., 217 Freeport Road, New Kensington. Additional viewing will be held from 10:30 a.m. to time of funeral service at 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 4, at Mt. Calvary Missionary Baptist Church, 1150 Fourth Ave., New Kensington. Burial will be in Greenwood Memorial Park, Lower Burrell. rossgwalker.com.