Charlene Elizabeth Mitchell
February 10, 1929 ~ January 21, 2014
Charlene Elizabeth Mitchell, 84, of Jefferson City, passed away Tuesday, January 21, 2014, at St. Mary's Health Center.
She was born on February 10, 1929, in Jefferson City, the daughter of the late John Henry and Frances Atwood (Dorton) Lee.
She was married in 1953, to Percy Devereaux in the State of California. From that union one son was born, Jeffrey Devereaux. She later was united in marriage on February 20, 1971, in Jefferson City, to Mr. Robert Lee Mitchell, Sr. who still survives.
She received her Bachelor's Degree in Music Education from Lincoln University of Missouri and Master of Arts Degree in Music from University of Missouri and further study in the Doctorial program at the University of Missouri.
Mrs. Mitchell was a music teacher for Lincoln University for over 40 years.
She was a member of Grace Episcopal Church, Golden Member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, the Zebras Bridge Club and the La Femme Bridge Club.
Mrs. Mitchell was a pianist for the Jefferson City Symphony Choir, accompanist for the Lincoln University Vocal Ensemble and the University Choir under the direction of her husband, Mr. Robert Mitchell and was pianist for the Jefferson City Little Theater for several years.
She received a plaque from Cork, Ireland while performing with the Jefferson City Little Theater in Cork, Ireland; Keeper of Dreams Award from Lincoln University; Deans Distinguished Teaching Award; Governors Award in Excellence in Teaching and a Certificate of Recognition from the Board of Curators at Lincoln University for 25 years of service.
She held professional membership with the Music Teachers National Association; Music Educators National Conference; Missouri Music Educators Association; Share in the Arts at Lincoln University; Community Concert Association; Delta Kappa Gamma Society International and NAACP. She was a former President of Jefferson City Music Society; Chairman of the Jefferson City Mid-Mo area Missouri Music Teachers Association and was a Honorary Life member of the Irish Federation of Musicians.
Mrs. Mitchell also was a Docent for the Missouri Governors Mansion and was a Gallery Hostess at the Miller Performing Arts Center.
In addition to her husband, she is survived by two children, Jeffrey (Denise) Devereaux, Bellevue, Nebraska; Robert Mitchell, Jr., San Francisco; three grandchildren, Anthony Devereaux, Las Vegas, NV; Jason Devereaux, Jefferson City; Justin Devereaux, Bellevue, Nebraska; a daughter-in-law Veronica Taylor, Jefferson City and a host of relatives and friends.
Funeral services will be 1 p.m. Wednesday, January 29, 2014, at Grace Episcopal Church with the Rev. Shariya Molegoda officiating.
Burial will be in Hawthorn Memorial Gardens.
Visitation will be 5-7 p.m. Tuesday at Dulle-Trimble Funeral Home.
Memorials are suggested to the Robert and Charlene Mitchell Scholarship at Lincoln University.
Those wishing to email tributes or condolences to the family may do so at the www.dulletrimble.com website.
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The first lesson I learned when I started as a student at Lincoln University – Missouri was that we are a family. Mother Charlene Mitchell will always be remembered with joy, humor, and a tear. Everyone she touched is blessed to have had a special lady grace theirs lives. RIP MOMS
Robert, We are saddened by the news. We are keeping you and family in prayer. Frank and i will always remember that charming smile that Charlene exhibited. We love you both.
Condolence message
My thoughts and prayers are extended to Charlene’s family and friends. She a wonderful role model, teacher AKA Soror, Zebra sistah and most of all a wonderful friend. I will be unable to attend the service, as I am in Florida. May God bless and keep all of the family. I will miss her so much. Liz & Rob Wilson
Elizabeth Wilson
Condolence message
My thoughts and prayers are extended to Charlene’s family and friends. She a wonderful role model, teacher AKA Soror, Zebra sistah and most of all a wonderful friend. I will be unable to attend the service, as I am in Florida. May God bless and keep all of the family. I will miss her so much. Liz & Rob Wilson
Elizabeth Wilson
Robert: I was very sorry to hear of the death of your wife. I know that she will be missed by the community of Lincoln University. May the Peace and Blessings of the Infinite Cosmic Creative Consciousness be with you and your family.
Abraham W. Bolden, Sr.
Robert: I was very sorry to hear of the death of your wife. I know that she will be missed by the community of Lincoln University. May the Peace and Blessings of the Infinite Cosmic Creative Consciousness be with you and your family.
Abraham W. Bolden, Sr.
Pops, I’m so sorry to hear of Moms passing. I will be praying for you and your family and am glad to have known such a special lady loved by many. She will be missed. Love, Jag!
Mr Mitchell, Tom and I are so sorry to hear of Mrs. Mitchell’s passing. She was such an angel to all of us. Tom and Mary Jo Durkin
Mr. Mitchell-Steve and I are truly sorry for your loss. I still remember that even though I was just a girlfriend of one of your choir students, you and Moms made me feel like part of the family. She was a kind, beautiful, talented woman and she will be greatly missed.
Steven and Linda Beck
Mr. Mitchell-Steve and I are truly sorry for your loss. I still remember that even though I was just a girlfriend of one of your choir students, you and Moms made me feel like part of the family. She was a kind, beautiful, talented woman and she will be greatly missed.
Steven and Linda Beck
Sending lots of love, strength and peace to your family in this time of sorrow, Mr. Mitchell. Although, I’ve never had the opportunity to sing with the LU choir, I was made well aware of the impact both you and Mom made on our university whether it was through your talents, guidance or even just through words of wisdom and encouragement . I was honored to know Soror Mitchell through AKA and I will forever cherish every moment we were able to connect.
We will continue to cherish you both in our hearts as we have all been touched in some way by your efforts. Love you much!
Sascha E. Perry
Miss Lincoln University 2011-2012
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. – Alpha Iota Sp. ‘11
Sending lots of love, strength and peace to your family in this time of sorrow, Mr. Mitchell. Although, I’ve never had the opportunity to sing with the LU choir, I was made well aware of the impact both you and Mom made on our university whether it was through your talents, guidance or even just through words of wisdom and encouragement . I was honored to know Soror Mitchell through AKA and I will forever cherish every moment we were able to connect.
We will continue to cherish you both in our hearts as we have all been touched in some way by your efforts. Love you much!
Sascha E. Perry
Miss Lincoln University 2011-2012
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. – Alpha Iota Sp. ‘11
Mrs. Mitchell, well remembered. She brought many gifts to us. She will be as well received on her journey. Comfort and love to Mr. Mitchell and the family.
All that is being said about Charlene is so true. She was, indeed, warm and tender-hearted. When my son passed, she was so concerned about me that she called frequently for several weeks just to check in. What I love most about her, however, is her sense of humor. Charlene was so much fun! Her laughter will forever resonate in my heart.
Mrs. Mitchell was an adjudicator for many a piano contest up at LU years ago. I happened to get her for many years straight. Not only was she brilliant and talented but she was ALWAYS right. Sure hate to hear of her passing. The Jefferson City/LU communities will never be the same.
To Mr. Robert Mitchell and Family of Charlene Mitchell,
How shocked and sadden were we to hear of the passing of Mrs. Mitchell. Please accept or condolences and prayers at
your loss. Grieving is different for each individual and we won’t claim to know your pain but know we grieve with you. When we lose someone we love and the loss sometimes seems too great to bear; God sends us friends and family to comfort us to show that He deeply cares. But in the dark hours of the night when there’s nobody else around, when we feel the saddest; it’s there that God’s love can be found. God reminds you of all the good times and blessings
you shared and it takes the sadness away. The gift of Time we cherish, the gift of Life goes fast, and the gift of
Love will never end as long as the memories last. May the love of friends and family surround you and provide you all the comfort you need at this time of great sorrow.
Tom and Lillie Abbott, LU Alumni
Lillie Smith Abbott Music Education Graduate 1972
To Mr. Robert Mitchell and Family of Charlene Mitchell,
How shocked and sadden were we to hear of the passing of Mrs. Mitchell. Please accept or condolences and prayers at
your loss. Grieving is different for each individual and we won’t claim to know your pain but know we grieve with you. When we lose someone we love and the loss sometimes seems too great to bear; God sends us friends and family to comfort us to show that He deeply cares. But in the dark hours of the night when there’s nobody else around, when we feel the saddest; it’s there that God’s love can be found. God reminds you of all the good times and blessings
you shared and it takes the sadness away. The gift of Time we cherish, the gift of Life goes fast, and the gift of
Love will never end as long as the memories last. May the love of friends and family surround you and provide you all the comfort you need at this time of great sorrow.
Tom and Lillie Abbott, LU Alumni
Lillie Smith Abbott Music Education Graduate 1972
Mrs. Mitchell was my third grade teacher as Charlene Devereaux. Such a loving and effective teacher, and a great person. My life continues to be touched, even now, my her sweet spirit. Satia Marshall Orange
Robert, I was very sad to learn of Charlene’s illness and passing. She was such a talented musician accompanist, and pianist. I was honored to call her my friend and colleague. We spent many hours together, practicing two-piano literature, playing duets, and preparing for our duo piano performances at Ogden Hall. Charlene brought great joy to the act of making music. Now she is playing with the angels and making beautiful there. Good bye my dear friend. I will miss you.
Pops. Our prayers are with you and Jeff and the rest of the family over the passing of Charlene. If not for you and moms Vicki and I would have never met much less been married now 29 years. It seems like just yesterday that we were on choir tour and she would be so intense on the piano that it would literally be bouncing. We grieve over her homegoing but rejoice that she had a long and blessed life and for the brief time we were allowed to share with her. We pray that Jehovah Shalom will grant you and the family peace beyond your understanding over a life lived and loved to it’s fullest.
Dearest Dr. Mitchell, Jeff and family: I am sorry to hear of Mrs. Mitchell’s passing. She was a wonderful woman who helped make me a better person so many years ago. I loved and respected her as I learned from her. She enriched my life. The world was blessed to have her and she will be missed. I know she is playing the piano with the angels. Love to you both.
We send our sincere prayers and condolences to your family during this difficult time. Mrs. Mitchell will be remembered as a very kind passionate lady that always kept a smile on her face…God Bless Your Family!
The Lincoln University Class of ’63, Charles T. Ledbetter Class President
TO: Mr. Robert Mithchell & Family, Mrs. Mithchell is going to be greatly missed by all of us in the LU Class of ’63. So even the kindest words that we wish and say could never convey the sympathy we have in our hearts. Please know
that our thoughts and prayers are that God will gently lead you and your family though this difficult time.
The Lincoln University Class of ’63, Charles T. Ledbetter Class President
TO: Mr. Robert Mithchell & Family, Mrs. Mithchell is going to be greatly missed by all of us in the LU Class of ’63. So even the kindest words that we wish and say could never convey the sympathy we have in our hearts. Please know
that our thoughts and prayers are that God will gently lead you and your family though this difficult time.
As I entered my office after teaching an English class, the phone rang. It was Charlene. She told me that Robert was short a few singers due to an illness going around and asked if I would please help out. I stated that my voice quality was not as good as it once had been and it would be wiser for me to sing only with a group as big as the Jefferson City Symphony Chorus(Charlene played the paino for our practicies). She asserted that I could be heard in that chorus. “Good Grief! Charlene! Why did you not tell me that? I would have been less loud.I thought might help some, have some enjoyment, but but be lost in the group”! I exclaimed.
After a couple of seconds, she told me this: “When Burkel auditions a person, he does not just pick perfect voices. He also wants a singer who knows notes well, preferably has had experience in group singing, and might be able to carry others. That’s why he chose you.” I suddenly hoped that I had not carried anyone to the wrong place. Charlene, however, had already moved ahead to announce the date and time of rehearsal. “I’ll see you then. Bring the voice you use when Burkel conducts! Thanksl Bye!”
I sat down at my desk and hung up the phone. I ended up singing with Robert’s students. I think that Linda Wyman, a colleague, also helped. I wondered then and now just how Charlene knew which of us could sing if we were NOT in the Symphony Chorus. Yet, whatever was needed to put on quality performances for her students or those of others was a goal to be met!.
In sympathy for loss and thankfulness for knowing her,
Donna Mary Grout
As I entered my office after teaching an English class, the phone rang. It was Charlene. She told me that Robert was short a few singers due to an illness going around and asked if I would please help out. I stated that my voice quality was not as good as it once had been and it would be wiser for me to sing only with a group as big as the Jefferson City Symphony Chorus(Charlene played the paino for our practicies). She asserted that I could be heard in that chorus. “Good Grief! Charlene! Why did you not tell me that? I would have been less loud.I thought might help some, have some enjoyment, but but be lost in the group”! I exclaimed.
After a couple of seconds, she told me this: “When Burkel auditions a person, he does not just pick perfect voices. He also wants a singer who knows notes well, preferably has had experience in group singing, and might be able to carry others. That’s why he chose you.” I suddenly hoped that I had not carried anyone to the wrong place. Charlene, however, had already moved ahead to announce the date and time of rehearsal. “I’ll see you then. Bring the voice you use when Burkel conducts! Thanksl Bye!”
I sat down at my desk and hung up the phone. I ended up singing with Robert’s students. I think that Linda Wyman, a colleague, also helped. I wondered then and now just how Charlene knew which of us could sing if we were NOT in the Symphony Chorus. Yet, whatever was needed to put on quality performances for her students or those of others was a goal to be met!.
In sympathy for loss and thankfulness for knowing her,
Donna Mary Grout
Comments We love you.
We would like to extend our deepest condolences for the loss of Mrs. Mitchell. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. God bless.
I always looked forward during Lincoln functions, and especially during graduation, to the special music the choir would perform. I loved the selections and also loved the performances. At those times when Charlene played the piano, I could see she gave her all to the music, and in giving her all to the music, she was also giving her all to her husband, Dr. Mitchell, and their students, that part of the Lincoln University family she especially cherished. And that sums up Charlene, a giving person. We saw it in her countenance and heard about it from her students. Her presence on campus, along with that of Doctor Mitchell, always reminded me that Lincoln University cares about excellence and cares about people. My sympathy and prayers go with you, Doctor Mitchell, as you miss this very special person who for so long was such a very special part of you and your life. One day you will see her in Glory.
My heart swells with joy when I remember Mrs. Mitchell and what she gave as a young music student at Lincoln University. She has left a legacy that few can claim. Yes, she gave us the gift of music, but she gave us much more in the life she shared. I am so grateful to have known her. May God hold her closely until we all meet again and sing and play and rejoice together.
Gary & Jeanette White
We extend our heartfelt sympathy. We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers. May God bless you and keep you in His care! We’re blessed to share her memory and spirit. Blessings!
Gary & Jeanette White
We extend our heartfelt sympathy. We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers. May God bless you and keep you in His care! We’re blessed to share her memory and spirit. Blessings!
It has been an honor, a pleasure, and a profound musical, educational experience to have studied under Charlene Mitchell. From the very beginning, I was in awe of her musical expertise and with Charlene and Robert Mitchell teaching in the music department at Lincoln U., any student fortunate enough to get either of them as an instructor, was truly blessed. The world will never comprehend the gravity of the greatness they have lost, but our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ has already welcomed her saying, “Well Done, My good and faithful servant, Well Done!”
As we celebrate Mrs. Mitchell’s wonderful life, let us always remember the wonderful contribution she made to the students of Lincoln University. As a choir member, I will always remember Mrs. Mitchell’s talent, patience, and love for all.
As I grow older,I now realize how important it is to leave a legacy filled with integrity. Mrs. Charlene Mitchell did accomplish that type of legacy.
Until We meet…….
Claire Lockman Boyce, Ph.D. 1964-1967
Melvin Boyce Sr. 1959-1963
As we celebrate Mrs. Mitchell’s wonderful life, let us always remember the wonderful contribution she made to the students of Lincoln University. As a choir member, I will always remember Mrs. Mitchell’s talent, patience, and love for all.
As I grow older,I now realize how important it is to leave a legacy filled with integrity. Mrs. Charlene Mitchell did accomplish that type of legacy.
Until We meet…….
Claire Lockman Boyce, Ph.D. 1964-1967
Melvin Boyce Sr. 1959-1963
Dear Professor Mitchell:
In memory of our beloved Mrs. Charlene Mitchell, I write to support you and family at this time. I am so thankful that my husband, Ernest Cooper, Jr., and I had the opportunity to visit with you and Mrs. Mitchell in your lovely home in 2012 and again in 2013.
The few momentst that I spent with Mrs. Mitchell and you in the hospital during the Golden Anniversary of the 1963 Class was precious. Even in her illness, Mrs. Mitchell was still gracious and still beautiful. Her endearing smile and lovely eyes will always be remembered.
I am sure that I speak on behalf of the former Music students of the Class of 1963, Shermita Gray West; Beverly Wells Washington; and Elaine Christian Mosely that you are one of our “Dearest” and “Best Professors.”
In your moments of solitude, we hope that you will draw upon the prestigious collaborations and achievements that you and Mrs. Mitchell shared on the musical stages with world-class artists and Metropolitan stars and that you recognize the impact that you played in molding your students.
As your former students, we shall forever remember the “Excellence in Teaching” by both you and Mrs. Charlene Mitchell and the wonderful role that you played as our mentors.
Special acknowledgement is extended to Dr. Charles Ledbetter, the best and most proficient Chairman of the 1963 Class who is “always on target,” and is sending flowers on behalf of the 1963 Class. Additionally, the former Music students of the Class of 1963″ extend our heartfelt thoughts and prayers to you, Jeffrey and family in memory of our beloved Mrs. Charlene Mitchell.
Sincerely,
Marva Harper Cooper (1963)
Dear Professor Mitchell:
In memory of our beloved Mrs. Charlene Mitchell, I write to support you and family at this time. I am so thankful that my husband, Ernest Cooper, Jr., and I had the opportunity to visit with you and Mrs. Mitchell in your lovely home in 2012 and again in 2013.
The few momentst that I spent with Mrs. Mitchell and you in the hospital during the Golden Anniversary of the 1963 Class was precious. Even in her illness, Mrs. Mitchell was still gracious and still beautiful. Her endearing smile and lovely eyes will always be remembered.
I am sure that I speak on behalf of the former Music students of the Class of 1963, Shermita Gray West; Beverly Wells Washington; and Elaine Christian Mosely that you are one of our “Dearest” and “Best Professors.”
In your moments of solitude, we hope that you will draw upon the prestigious collaborations and achievements that you and Mrs. Mitchell shared on the musical stages with world-class artists and Metropolitan stars and that you recognize the impact that you played in molding your students.
As your former students, we shall forever remember the “Excellence in Teaching” by both you and Mrs. Charlene Mitchell and the wonderful role that you played as our mentors.
Special acknowledgement is extended to Dr. Charles Ledbetter, the best and most proficient Chairman of the 1963 Class who is “always on target,” and is sending flowers on behalf of the 1963 Class. Additionally, the former Music students of the Class of 1963″ extend our heartfelt thoughts and prayers to you, Jeffrey and family in memory of our beloved Mrs. Charlene Mitchell.
Sincerely,
Marva Harper Cooper (1963)
To Uncle Robert, Jeff and Robert Jr..It is with sadden hearts that we send our deepiest and sincere condolences in the loss of Aunt Charlene. So many memories One fondiest for me is staying up all night to make sure her veil was right for her wedding. And my pinning when i entered into Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority.. But Jesus said let not your heart be troubled for ye believe in God believe also in Me. For in my Fathers house are many mansions and just as Jesus has gone to prepare a house for all of us so has Aunt Charlene to prepare for you another house for her family as she always did. Much peace and love to ypu all.
My prayers for the family she will be greatly missed
What a beautiful DVD tribute honoring the memory of one of the most beautiful souls I have ever known. It is with such great sadness that Charlene is gone, but she left such an important and fulfilling legacy. She was a role model for all, and it was my privilege to know and have a laugh with her. I’ll keep playing some Rachmaninoff for you Charlene! You touched my heart forever and gave me courage to conquer! To the entire Mitchell family, I send my deepest sympathy. They are celebrating Charlene’s arrival in heaven!
Gary Sanders
What a beautiful DVD tribute honoring the memory of one of the most beautiful souls I have ever known. It is with such great sadness that Charlene is gone, but she left such an important and fulfilling legacy. She was a role model for all, and it was my privilege to know and have a laugh with her. I’ll keep playing some Rachmaninoff for you Charlene! You touched my heart forever and gave me courage to conquer! To the entire Mitchell family, I send my deepest sympathy. They are celebrating Charlene’s arrival in heaven!
Gary Sanders