Warnell Amanda Mims

Warnell (Juanell) Amanda Mims was born on April 10, 1931, in St. Petersburg, Florida. She passed away peacefully on August 11, 2025, in St. Paul, Minnesota. She was 94 years old. She is preceded in death by: her Mother and Father: Emanual Childs, Sr. and Josephine (née Davis) Childs; (Husband) David Earl Mims; Sisters: Dorene Leonard, Melissa Givens and Christine McCray; and her (Sons) Keith Juan and Medcaw Earl Mims.

Warnell (Juanell) graduated from high school when she was 15 years-old and was accepted to Fisk University to begin her Undergraduate career. She completed her freshman year at Fisk University; and later decided to move to New York City alongside her two older sisters. Her goal being to develop a deeper understanding of Fashion & Design. She moved from New York City after living there for one year and went to Alabama to attend Tuskegee Institute (University) receiving her Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Home Economics. While attending Tuskegee she met the love of her life, David Earl Mims, got married and promptly moved to his hometown of Okmulgee, Oklahoma while he served in the Korean War. In 1954 Warnell Mims and David Earl Mims migrated to St. Paul, Minnesota; and it was here that she established deep roots in the Rondo Community, raised her family, and established the foundation of her legacy.

Warnell (Juanell) was a pillar within the Rondo Community for decades. She demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities and social commitments including: 25-years as the First Black Female Area Manager Sears, Roebuck, and Co., 50-years as an Active-Member and President of the Regalettes Social and Civic Womens Club, over 40-years as a Lead Choir Director at Mount Olivet Missionary Baptist Church, and was the eldest surviving member of the congregation up to her transition. She also served as the Relief Church Secretary at Mount Olivet Missionary Baptist Church, and Chair of the Bereavement Kitchen Ministry for over 20-years. In addition, she spent 35-years serving on the Board of Directors for Gospel Choirs United (GCU).

Those who knew Warnell (Juanell) witnessed strength in her Faith, a firm and unwavering commitment to her family immediate and extended, joy for Civic Engagement and pride in Home Ownership. She was consistently regal, and carried herself with resilience, vitality and vibrance. Above all, she exuded LOVE and believed love was essential to a fulfilling life.

Warnell (Juanell) is survived by her son Davvie C. Mims (Regina) of Charlotte, North Carolina and her daughter Vivian Mims of St. Paul, Minnesota. Grandchildren: Julius A. Mims, Sr., Caloynne Clay-Mims, Angelo J. Mims, Sundreya A. Mims-Patterson (Felipe), David E. Mims (LaShaye), Darrin O. Mims, Benell A. Weatherspoon and Aria K. Weatherspoon; 13 Great-Grandchildren; a loving/extended tribe and family; and a host of friends. We all cherished her vibrant spirit, no-nonsense way of existing, thoughtful prayers, and un-conditional support. We love you Juanell, forever.

Internment: Fort Snelling Cemetery Wednesday September 03, 2025, at 1:45 pm. Fellowship at Mt. Olivet Missionary Baptist Church, 451 West Central Ave. St. Paul, MN, immediately following ceremony.