Genova Ernestine Johnson was born May 4, 1951, in East Saint Louis, Illinois to Ernestine "Tinni" and Ralph Rattler. She was the youngest sibling to her brother, Ronald (Ronnie) Rattler.

Genova grew up in Kansas City, Missouri and graduated from North East High School.  She met and married Leroy Johnson Sr.  Genova and Leroy had six beautiful children.

After graduating high school, Genova went to school and became a licensed CNA.  Later, she worked as a head chef at the famous soul food restaurant, Peach Tree where she later retired.

Genova was full of life, she loved Blues music, and she loved to cook. She was called "Momma G" by a lot of her friends.  Her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, family, and friends were very important to her.

Her mother, Ernestine Rattler; father, Ralph Rattler; daughter Kimberly Debose and son Leroy Johnson Jr., all preceded her in death.

Genova leaves behind to cherish her memory: four children, Alfred "Al" Jerome Lee Jr. (Samantha), Genetta Lee, Genean Rattler, and Kimberly Johnson Payne and a host of grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Services for Mrs. Johnson were Saturday, October 26, 2019, at E. S. Eley & Sons Funeral Chapel.  Private Disposition.

Thoughtful care and services provided by E. S. Eley & Sons Funeral Chapel, Inc .