Brenda Mitchell

Brenda Joyce Raphael Mitchell, a vessel of knowledge, passion, and inspiration, bid us farewell on January 5, 2024. With heavy hearts, we remember an extraordinary individual who left an indelible mark
on countless lives.

Born on September 18, 1943, to the late Lucille Patterson and Lazarus Raphael of Vacherie, Louisiana, Brenda dedicated her life to nurturing young minds and shaping their futures. After finishing her education in the St. James Public School system, she began pursuing her bachelor’s degree at Southern University of Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Her chosen path to study English and Public Speaking would forever impact generations to come.

Professionally, Brenda was an exceptional teacher for 35 years, leaving an immense impact on the lives of her students. Beyond the realm of education, Brenda shared an unparalleled love story with her high school sweetheart, Leroy Mitchell, Sr. For half a century, their union epitomized love, strength, and unwavering devotion. Together, they nurtured the lives of their children while weathering the storms of life, and continuing to support and encourage one another through thick and thin. Their profound bond
served as a shining example of a harmonious partnership built on love, respect, and understanding.

Within her community, Brenda was known for her unwavering faith and commitment to her Catholic beliefs. Her commitment began at St. Phillip Catholic Church in Vacherie, Louisiana and continued at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Edgard, Louisiana. She found solace and strength in her relationship with God, which guided her actions to become a Eucharistic Minister, Lector, and Religion Teacher for over 20 years. Her involvement in various religious activities touched the lives of many, serving as a beacon of faith and inspiration.

When Brenda took her final bow on earth, she was reunited in eternity with her beloved husband, Leroy Mitchell, Sr., along with her parents; Lucille and Lazarus Raphael, her sister; Irma Raphael Smith, two brothers; Andrew Raphael and Joseph Raphael, Sr., and two grandsons; Marcus A. Foley and Shaquille Gray.

Brenda Joyce Raphael Mitchell will be deeply missed and forever loved by her children; Rachelle (Michael, Sr.) Foley of Marrero, Leroy (Sonja) Mitchell, Jr. of LaPlace, and Kyle (Tara) Mitchell, Sr. of Baton Rouge; stepson, Terrence Morton of Lancaster, Texas, one brother; Warren Rafiel of Knoxville, Tennessee, grandchildren; Dr. Rachael (Derek) Reed, Michael Foley, Jr., Zaki Mitchell, Katelyn Mitchell, Kyle Mitchell, Jr., Kaleb Mitchell, Ronnie Lathers, Michelle (Caleb, Sr.) Ancar and Amy Butler, great-grandchildren, Michael A. Foley, III, Caleb Ancar, Jr. Cherish Ancar, Cailey Ancar, Rachon Hall, Ramone Lathers, Brison Perryman, Jeremiah Stewart, and Remi Lathers. As well as, other family, friends, former colleagues, church family, and the countless students whose lives were enriched by her unwavering dedication.

Rest in eternal peace, Dear Brenda. You have touched countless lives, and your legacy will forever thrive within the corridors of education and the hearts of all who knew you.

A Celebration of Brenda’s Life and Legacy will be held on Saturday, January 20, 2024, at 10am at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church 2349 Hwy. 18, Edgard, Louisiana. Reverend Robustiano Morgia, Celebrant. Final viewing 8am to 10am with Mass starting at 10am. Entombment at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church Cemetery, Edgard, Louisiana. Final care and professional services entrusted to Treasures of Life Funeral Services 315 East Airline Hwy., Gramercy, Louisiana 70052.

"When someone you love becomes a memory, that memory becomes a TREASURE!"