Geri Mitchell Cardwell

Geri Ann Mitchell Cardwell of Tunica, Mississippi, died on Sunday, August 24, 2025. She was 80. She was born on September 20, 1944, to William Gerry “Freck” Mitchell and Ann Mitchell. She was a loving sister to her sister, Clara Sue, and her brother, Ralph.

As a teen, Geri was an accomplished majorette for the Water Valley High School Band. She was widely known for her outstanding talent, twirling fire batons and eventually earning the state title of Miss Mississippi Majorette.

After graduating from Water Valley High School, where she met her future husband Ross Cardwell, Geri attended Northwest MS Community College and then The University of Mississippi. After marrying In 1967, the couple moved to Clarksdale, MS, where she was a secretary for the Mayor. She and Ross owned and operated Haggard Drug Store and Delta Discount Drugs for several decades. While in Clarksdale, they also welcomed two daughters, Catherine Luann and Mary Ann.

Geri was a devoted member of Oakhurst Baptist Church where she chaired numerous committees. Her love and talent for decorating found her frequently decorating for parties, showers, and weddings. She also was a member of the Clarksdale Garden Club and later the Water Valley Garden Club. Whether at the stadium or in her living room, her favorite Saturdays were when she could gather with family and cheer loudly for the Ole Miss Rebels.

Geri’s resilient spirit is illustrated by her resolve to complete her Bachelors of Education degree. While in her mid-forties, she completed her Elementary Education Degree at Delta State University. Upon graduation, Geri began teaching kindergarten at Booker T. Washington Elementary School and remained in that role for over a decade. Her teaching career also extended to St. George’s Elementary School and St. Elizabeth’s Catholic School. Whether in the numerous school settings where she was an educator or in the church nursery where she also spent a great deal of time, her genuine love of all children and concern for their well being extended to the children in her care. This love has extended to her passion for “Operation Christmas Child”, where she regularly packed boxes to support children around the world.

To all who encountered her, Geri was known as a genuine, loving, and sweet person. Forever the hostess with an inviting spirit, she never ceased to place other’s comfort and needs above her own. Her love for her family was evident and limitless. Throughout her life, she remained a steady force of wisdom and guidance for her children and grandchildren, reminding them all to live their lives in a way that places God first and family second.

Geri is survived by her husband, Ross, her daughter, Cathy Fullilove (Adam) of Tunica, her daughter Mary Ann Parker (Brad) of Thaxton, and three beloved grandchildren, Jon Charles McKinney of Tunica, Stephen Parker of Oxford, and Ava McKinney of Tunica; sister-in-law Norma “Sissy” Hall (Mickey) of Water Valley, and many beloved nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and siblings.

Visitation is planned for Wednesday, August 27, 2025, in the Gardiner Room at Seven Oaks Funeral Home in Water Valley, MS, from 11:30 AM until 1:00 PM; A service celebrating Geri's life will begin at 1:00 pm in the Henry Chapel at Seven Oaks. Following the service, interment will be at Oak Hill Cemetery, Water Valley, MS. Seven Oaks is honored to be serving Geri's family and asks that you pray for them during this time of grief. 

Memorial donations may be made to: Operation Christmas Child, c/o First Baptist Church of Tunica, P.O. Box 785,Tunica, MS 38676.