Arlethia Mitchell was born August 22, 1939 in Tyronza, Arkansas to the union of Mr. Isadore and Richie Lee King. She accepted Christ as her Savior early in life. She grew up in Blytheville, Arkansas, where she met Albert Mitchell Jr. From their union came six children. Later they moved to East St. Louis, Illinois where she resided the rest of her life.

Affectionately known as Momma, Grandmother, and "Cricket", Arlethia loved to cook, sew, decorate, and make crafts. Whether it was something simple she cooked for herself or her hosting Thanksgiving and Christmas, dinner at her table was a feast! Known as one of the best seamstresses in East St. Louis, a true professional, Arlethia could make clothes, dolls, and one of a kind decorations, for something in your home, to treasure forever. She was also a businesswoman and you had to pay your fee no matter how much she loved you.

Beautiful, classy, and sassy, Arlethia had a with about her that made you laugh every time you spoke with her. Her genuine demeanor caused her to meet no strangers, making anyone feel comfortable. Honest and frank, she always told the truth in love. She was the matriarch of her family -- strong, steady, and stable.

Arlethia loved the Lord. You could see it by her heart for people, looking around at the decorations of her home that reflected God's Word, and by her service. She was a faithful member at Macedonia Baptist Church where she attended Sunday school and served on the usher board for over 50 years before her health started to decline. Even in her final days, her health decline never broke her spirit. On Saturday, March 21, 2026, God called Arlethia home at the age of 86. She was preceded in death by her late husband, two sons, Arty and Dexter Mitchell, and one daughter, Perketia King-Cook. She leaves to cherish her memories her four children, Albert Mitchell III (Monica) of Cahokia, Illinois, Tara Mitchell of East St. Louis, Illinois, Roderick Mitchell Sr. (Barbara) of Irving, Texas, Tracey Mitchell (Kevin) of East St. Louis, Illinois; one brother, Henry King (Adline) of Blytheville, Arkansas; 14 grandchildren, 3 great-great grandchildren, caregiver Jillene Hunter, and a host of extended family and friends.. She will be deeply missed, but we take comfort in knowing she is at peace with the Lord.