Sally Mitchener

MITCHENER
Feb. 2, 1941-Aug. 9, 2016
Sally Frances Conway Mitchener

Sally Frances Conway Mitchener went to be with her Savior on August 9, 2016. Sally was born February 2, 1941 to Sallie Pearl Conway and Francis Livingston Conway, Sr., both of whom predeceased her. Sally married the love of her life, James "Mitch" Earl Mitchener, Sr., on July 10, 1961. They spent fifty-five years building a life, building a family, and bringing joy to countless family and friends. Their love for each other was inspirational to everyone who knew them.
As an Air Force bride, Sally and her family served our country in Japan, Alaska, Oklahoma, Alabama, Florida, California, Louisiana, New Mexico, and Texas. Because Sally had no use for flying, most of this travel was done by epic "road trips" that her sons still talk about all these years later.
About thirty years ago, Sally was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. The disease may have put Sally in a Rascal scooter (which she used to move furniture around like a forklift), but the disease only made Sally's spirit even stronger. She was a formidable force for good and always had a quick smile for someone who needed encouragement. "Swamp Mama" was the strong, caring woman who many people turned to in times of uncertainty. She had a way of making everyone feel like things would work out. Her optimism is Sally's hallmark, along with her quick wit.
In the wee hours of the morning, Sally passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones. She found her well-deserved reward with the Lord. Her invincible faith carried Sally to victory.
Sally had four siblings. One brother, Francis Livingston Conway, predeceased her. Her surviving brother is Thomas Lee Conway of Mobile, AL. She is survived by two sisters, Flora "Jeannie" Jean Conway of Mobile, AL, who often helped Sally and Mitch, and Thelma "Candy" Estelle Conway Dabney of Ozark, AL. Candy's husband, Frank Dabney, was very special to Sally. He and Candy were never more special than these last few months. Sally loved all of her siblings, but the three Conway girls share a very special bond that is reserved for sisters. Sally has many nieces and nephews, whom she counts on to carry on her family's legacy. While Sally dearly loved all of her nieces and nephews, it is fitting that the family thank the "nurse niece," Frankie Dabney, for her steadfast presence in the last weeks, all the way to the finish line.
Sally had three sons, whom she cherished. Her eldest son is James "Jimmy" Earl Mitchener, Jr., whose wife, Kim, resides with him in Lakeland, FL. Her second son is Michael Francis Mitchener, of Washington., D.C. Her youngest son, Jeffrey Gene Mitchener, lives in New Orleans, with his partner, Frank Israel. Her boys, now men, were the light of her life.
Sometimes, family is not born, but made. The family wants to acknowledge Collette Rosenstiel who is a longtime, dear friend, whom Sally loved as a daughter. Sally had a way of including everyone in her loving tribe.
The family also wants to thank caregiver, Sivine Darsey, for her gentle and loving care of Mitch. Sivine stepped in and helped add security and warmth for Mitch and for Sally.
There will be a Catholic "Liturgy of the Word" from the Chapel of Mobile Memorial Gardens Funeral Home in Mobile, AL at 2:00 PM on Monday, August 15, 2016. Visitation is from 12:00 Noon until 2:00 p.m. Interment will follow in Mobile Memorial Gardens. The family asks that you might consider supporting the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation or a charity of your choosing rather than sending flowers. Condolences may be offered at www.mobilememorialfunerals.com.

Visitation

Mobile Memorial Gardens Funeral Home
6040 Three-Notch Road
Mobile, AL  36619
Monday, August 15, 2016
12 - 2:00 PM

Service

Mobile Memorial Gardens Funeral Home
6040 Three-Notch Road
Mobile, AL  36619
Monday, August 15, 2016
2:00 PM

Cemetery

Mobile Memorial Gardens
6100 Three-Notch Road
Mobile, AL  36619