RONDA NICOLE MITCHELL - born on October 1, 1984, in Germany to Regina Gainer, who was serving in the United States Air Force at the time. She passed away on April 11, 2025, in Cartersville, Georgia, at the age of 40. After spending her early childhood in Germany and Nebraska, Ronda moved with her mother to Lexington, Kentucky in the late 1980s.

She grew up surrounded by a large, tight-knit group of cousins and enjoyed the kind of childhood you see in the movies. She spent her early years riding bikes, swimming, going on summer trips, and staying active, much of it thanks to her aunt Jeanine, who made sure the cousins were always included through her role as YMCA manager. Many weekends were spent at the home of her grandparents, William Sanders Sr. and Joemma Sanders, where the cousins gathered and made memories that would stay with them for life.

Ronda excelled in sports, especially basketball, where her competitive nature and athleticism stood out. She was also incredibly intelligent, with a gift for technical things. She could take apart and rebuild a computer like second nature.

In the mid-1990s, Ronda relocated to Georgia, where she would spend the majority of her adult life. She completed her middle school years and began high school in Georgia before returning to Kentucky during her senior year. She later completed her education at Fort Campbell High School, a Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) school located at Fort Campbell.

Ronda earned her Associate of Science degree in Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services from Athens Technical College in 2015. She was a proud member of Alpha Beta Gamma International Business Honor Society and Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. Earning her degree gave her the opportunity to step into a field she was passionate about, a moment that reflected her hard work and dedication.

Though she never had biological children, Ronda was a devoted godmother to two young brothers, Mari and Jay. She became a steady, nurturing presence in their lives. When Mari became ill, Ronda stayed by his side, offering unwavering care and love throughout his medical journey. She was with him when he transitioned, providing comfort, support, and a love that spoke to the depth of her heart.

On September 24, 2024, Ronda married her wife, Rhonda Mitchell. Through that union, she gained a loving extended family. Rhonda’s parents, Sherry Mitchell and John Mitchell, welcomed her with open arms. Ronda also embraced Rhonda’s children as her own: DeVante Mitchell, Chance Scrutchins (Emily), Adina Lawrence (John), and Christian Scrutchins, who preceded her in death. She was proud to be a grandmother to eight grandsons and one granddaughter. Ronda was also close to Rhonda’s brother, Calvin Mitchell (Shawnte), and their daughters, Caelen and Myridian.

Ronda shared a deep bond with her godmother, Ca Trice Glenn, who was a constant source of love and support in her life. She also cherished her goddaughter, Madison Glenn, who held a special place in her heart.

She is survived by her wife, Rhonda Mitchell; her mother, Regina Gainer; her godmother, Ca Trice Glenn; her aunts and uncles: Edward Sanders (deceased), Elise Sanders, Jeanine Sanders, Michael Sanders, Theresa Sanders, William Sanders Jr., and Monique Sanders. Ronda’s cousins include Shaquona Moore, Tamar Sanders (and her children, Bailey and Karrine Pierce), Denesha Jackson, Teria Slaughter, Naja Johnson, Justin Sanders, Ashante Johnson, Dyan Johnson, Kameren Sanders, Charkala Stigall, Mikalea Sanders, and many aunts, uncles, and cousins who loved her deeply. She was also preceded in death by her grandparents, William Sanders Sr. and Joemma Sanders.

Ronda will be remembered for her sharp mind, her strength, her sense of humor, and the love she gave freely to those she trusted. She carried a deep desire to be loved fully and without condition, and it is with that spirit that we honor her now.

Homegoing Celebration to be announced at a later date by Willis Funeral Home, Inc., Dalton, GA.