Katheren Ann (Buie) Mitchell, 82 years of age, passed away peacefully on August 30, 2026, in Russellville, surrounded by her loved ones. Born on October 26, 1943, in Little Rock, she was the daughter of the late Opal (Bill) and Bessie (Hurst) Buie.

Katheren grew up near Mount George, attended school in Danville and was baptized in the Petit Jean River. Though she grew up in humble, poor beginnings, Katheren possessed a rare and beautiful spirit; she was fiercely optimistic and famously found a silver lining in every situation life brought her way.

At just 16 years old, she met the love of her life, Alvin Mitchell, who was 19 at the time. The two were wed on September 24, 1960, beginning a beautiful journey together that spanned over 65 years until Alvin's passing. Together, they built a life rooted in love, resilience, and family devotion. Katheren dedicated her life to nurturing her family, creating a warm, welcoming home for her family, friends and neighbors.

Katheren was a gifted cook, a master quilter, and talented seamstress. She poured her love into every stitch, creating beautiful quilts, embroidered items and all types of clothing for her family and friends.  She generously gifted much of her exquisite handiwork to family and friends alike. Her creations will be cherished for generations as lasting symbols of her skill, warmth, and generosity.

Katheren was deeply devoted to her God, her family, her church, and her friends.  Although she worked many jobs in her lifetime, her greatest joy was in loving and serving her family.

Katheren was preceded in death by her parents, Bill and Bessie Buie; her brothers, Boyce Ray and Walter; her sisters, Ruby and Reba; her beloved husband, Alvin Mitchell; and an infant son, Alvin J. Mitchell Jr.

She leaves behind a rich legacy of love and faith. She is survived by her two daughters, Diane (Randall) Walters and Carla Mitchell; three grandchildren, Deidre (Jason) Luker, Brett (Emma) Walters, and Drew (Lacey) Walters; and five great-grandchildren, Brody Lovell, Reese Lovell, Joshua George, Henry Walters, and Lincoln Walters; along with many extended family members and friends.

The funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Thursday, Sept 3, 2026, at the Phoenix Free Will Baptist Church on Buck Mountain, 4458 Buck Mountain Road, Dover, AR  72837, with the Rev. Troy Coffman and the Rev. Terry Duvall officiating. A private interment will follow at Phoenix Cemetery under the direction of Shinn Funeral Service of Russellville, where Katheren will be laid to rest beside her beloved Alvin.

The family will receive friends immediately after the service at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Phoenix Free Will Baptist Church or to the Phoenix Cemetery, and mailed to: 2640 Landers Loop Rd. Dover, AR 72837.

Online guestbook and condolences available at www.shinnfuneral.com .