
Juanita Dean Holdren Mitchen, 89, went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, April 15, 2026. She is preceded in death by her husband of 69 years, Bobbie Mitchen; her parents, Nathan Holdren and Nettie Hensley Scott; two sons, Danny Mitchen and David Mitchen; and two brothers, Johnny Holdren and Lloyd Holdren.
Juanita worked as a private duty caregiver at Bedford Memorial Hospital for many years. She also provided care for several people in her home, including her dear husband. She had a passion for helping others, enjoyed life and loved everyone. Juanita loved the Lord and served him faithfully as a member of Sedalia Baptist Church for 70+ years. She served as music director, as a member in the church choir, and worked with the youth for 50 years.
She loved music, especially gospel, and her husband and she sang in a gospel and bluegrass band, performing at churches and community events. Juanita loved her family and loved cooking for family gatherings.
Juanita leaves behind her four children, Rebecca Harrison (Daniel), Ronald Mitchen (Stephanie), Robert Mitchen (Rosa), and Lisa Rood; ten grandchildren, Melissa Harrison, Frank Mitchen (Brittany), Timothy Mitchen, Tommy Mitchen, Adam Rood, Erin Andrews (Jared), Hannah Smith (Randall), Nita Hawkins (Tyler), Cassie Jones (D.J.), Chris Frost (Samantha); thirteen great-grandchildren; and a great-great granddaughter on the way. Also, she has many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and friends.
The family would like to thank Dr Brian Buchanan, Dr Thomas Neal, and Centra Hospice for their love and care to Juanita.
A funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., on Monday, April 20, 2026 at Sedalia Baptist Church with Rev. Mike Jones and Rev. Ken Bledsoe officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Family will receive friends one hour prior to the service beginning at 1:00 p.m.
Arrangements by Burch-Messier Funeral Home, Bedford, 540-586-7360.


