Leona May Mitchell

Leona May Oakes was born October 28, 1959, to Vencil Oakes and Laura Dodson. She grew up in Englewood, CO and shared a special bond with her brothers, Raymond, Muril, Darryl and Allen and beloved little sister Loretta.

Her greatest journey began on her 21st birthday when she welcomed oldest daughter Amber Elizabeth to the world. She and Amber were over the moon when Jennifer Rose joined them in February 1983. She married the love of her life, Dale Mitchell on August 27, 1983, and they rounded out their trio of girls with the arrival of Sabrina Marie in July 1984.

Leona and Dale have shared a love story and devotion to each other that most only dream of. For forty years they walked every dark valley and rejoiced in every mountain top by each other's side. They raised their daughters in a home filled with love and taught them by example to be resilient, loyal, and selfless.

Leona loved her nieces, nephews, and daughters' friends as her own. Over the years she and Dale opened their arms and home to family and friends alike. If she could offer support in any way, she would without hesitation - and when she couldn't, she volunteered Dale.

Leona loved being a mama and an auntie but her most treasured role was that of Grew (grandma) to her three grewkids, Jay, Em and Xan. There has never been a more devoted Grew; she saw them and loved them each for the unique and beautiful people they are. The four of them have shared a bond that will not be broken by time or space.

Leona's greatest legacy and gift was her love for her family and that was never more evident than in her final days and hours. Loved ones near and far held her in their hearts and arms as she transitioned on November 22, 2023. In her passing she was reunited with her parents, Laura and Vencil, beloved grandmother Lena and Aunt Grace, nephew Kyle, parents-in-law, Joe and Lois, and sister-in-law Kathy. Dale, Amber (Allen), Jenni (Matt), Sabrina, Jay (AJ), Em and Xan, along with countless extended family will treasure their time with and memories of her. She will be missed more than we can even understand now.

The family would like to thank everyone who has called, messaged and visited. Your love and support for each of us has helped carry us through this time. Our heartfelt gratitude to the incredible nurses and doctors at the Swedish Medical Center ICU for their amazing care of her.

In lieu of flowers please consider "adopting" a child or family in your community this holiday season in Leona's memory. (Leona felt privileged to give back in this way every year)

An open house will be held in Leona's memory on Sunday, December 3rd from 2pm to 7pm. Please contact the family for more details.