ASHANTI JOHNSON

Ashanti Monique Johnson was born on September 10, 1980 in Davenport, Iowa to Debra Johnson. She attended Stranger’s Rest Baptist Church where she was baptized into Christ. Ashanti attended Northwest Middle school and graduated from Kansas City Wyandotte High School in 1998, home of the mighty Bulldogs.

Ashanti was most proud of her eleven year old daughter, Monei Mitchell. Monei was the source of great joy and strength for Ashanti. They were very close and spent a lot of time together doing homework, watching their favorite YouTuber—Corey X Kenshin, and teaching Monei how to burn in the kitchen. Everything Ashanti did was a testament to the love that a mother has for her child. No sacrifice was too great in order for Monei to have all that she needed.

Ashanti was loyal and fiercely protective of those she loved.  Many knew Ashanti has siblings, but only a few knew that her sister April was her “fraternal twin,”. They grew up together, wore the same hair styles (always in different colors) and were two soul drawn together by God, because they needed each other. April describes Ashanti as the best keeper of secrets,. Ashanti is also simultaneously a hot head and a cool spirit. She loved hard, and demonstrated that love for her family and friends while enjoying the fellowship with them.

Ashanti was an excellent cook, and she loved preparing meals and trying out new recipes for her family. Travelling was one of her favorite past times. She moved to Dallas last summer, and spent the past several months traveling with family. In the last year Ashanti had a great deal of fun with Monei. One of the highlights was Monei’s 11 Birthday bash! And the New Year’s Charcuterie Board Creation!  After a 7 year battle with sarcoidosis, a rare lung disease,  Ashanti slipped peacefully into the arms of God.

Her family will forever cherish her infectious smile, comedic facial expressions, and her ability to articulate exactly what was on her mind. She is well-known for her amazing sense of humor and will be greatly missed by many.

Ashanti is survived by her daughter, Monei Mitchell; Her mother, Debra Johnson and Harry L. Moye;  Brothers: Alonzo Verser, Phillip Scott, Avery Verser, Robert Verser, and Erick Verser;  Sisters: April Cowan, Roshae Verser, Cameisha Martin, Natasha Marshall; Sisters-in-Love: Lovie Verser and Raneasha Dudley-Madison, Uncles and Aunts: Jacqueline MCcoy, Willard Burrell along with a host of  cousins, nieces, nephews and friends. Deceased: Grandmother Lorraine Goldston, Aunt, Lorretta Stevenson,  Uncle, Maurice Burrell. Great Grandmother, Della Neal.