Nellie Tawanna Mitchell was born on December 10, 1980, in Greenville, Mississippi, to Billy Cannon and Fannie Mae Harris. From an early age, Nellie had a bright spirit and a bold presence that made her unforgettable to everyone she met. Growing up, Nellie was a force on the baseball field. Known affectionately by her nickname "Big Tee," she was famous for her powerful hits — when she stepped up to bat, all the other girls knew to back up, because that ball was going far. Her competitive spirit and playful nature made her a joy to watch and be around. Nellie also had a deep love for cooking. Everyone who tasted her cooking knew they were enjoying something made with love and care. She was passionate about travel and especially loved cruises and being out on the open sea. Nellie had a beautiful smile — radiant and full of life. It could light up a room. Still, in her own words, "I unsettled her… a LOT!" — a reminder of her playful honesty and fiery personality. She was an avid fan of Law & Order and a true sports enthusiast. She admired Kobe Bryant's relentless drive and later became a big fan of Steph Curry's game. She called him her son. Sundays were often emotional events when the Dallas Cowboys played. Even in victory, she would say, "We played bad that game." Music was another great love in her life — the soundtrack to her soul.

She was preceded in death by her parents; mother, Fannie Mae Harris; father, Billy Cannon; father-in-law, Willie James Flowers; mother-in-law, Gloria M. Flowers; and cousin, Joyce Edwards.

She leaves cherished memories to her loving and devoted husband, Jonathan Mitchell; children, Ja'Nesha Edwards, Jonathan H. Mitchell III, Ja'Kayla Mitchell, and Jocelyn Mitchell; granddaughter, Cassandra (Sunny); step-father, Robert Harris, Brother, Billy Edwards; and sisters, Lowanda Edwards (Big Twin), Shawanda Edwards (Lil' Twin), Erica Harris, and Tameka Harris (Meek).