Jenetta Johnson-Cotton

Mrs. Jenetta Johnson-Cotton was the ninth of thirteen children born on January 25, 1933, in Schlater, Mississippi, to Thomas and Estella Lyle Williams. She departed this earthly life on Wednesday, November 27, 2024, surrounded by her loved ones. Jenetta completed her primary education at Jones School, within the Mississippi School System. Jenetta confessed belief in Christ at an early age, while at Sunnyside Chapel, in Greenwood, Mississippi.

Jenetta married James L. Johnson on December 11, 1948. Shortly thereafter, James and Jenetta moved to Indianapolis, Indiana. To their union, five children were born: James L. Johnson Jr., Charles Larry, Betty Jean, Diane and Roxanne. James and Jenetta shared many years of marital bliss, until his death.

Jenetta, along with her husband, united with St. John’s Missionary Baptist Church, soon after relocating to Indianapolis. She served several years on the Senior Usher Board and as a Matron. While at St. John’s Missionary Baptist Church, Jenetta was well respected and developed several special friendships.

Jenetta held multiple employment positions while raising her children. As her children grew, she worked many years as a Sorter for Mechanics Laundry, until she retired.

Jenetta was joined in holy matrimony to John Henry Cotton, on October 16, 2004. Jenetta and John shared happy years together, filled with a whole lot of laughter, until his death.

Jenetta joined Whole Man Ministries, where she served as an Usher and “Mother” to the congregation. Jenetta was also known to sing and lead praise service, from time to time. She loved the Lord and was usually found on her feet singing and praising.

Jenetta LOVED her family! She also enjoyed helping to organize the Family Reunions. Jenetta kept in touch with everyone in the family, which developed into her having specific days/times to call each person. She also called her children and grandchildren on birthdays to sing Happy Birthday. We all grew fond of our interactions with her and looked forward to each and every encounter. Jenetta loved to cook and while she was known for many delicious dishes and desserts, her egg custard pies were second to none. Many of her recipes have been handed down to her children and grandchildren.

Jenetta was also known for being a “Fashionista”, a woman of outstanding fashion. From head to toe, she demonstrated exceptional taste and style of dress. Her favorite colors were black and red. She also loved being complimented for looking younger than her actual age. Jenetta was an avid Indiana Pacers fan, and she would often root for her team by yelling “GO PAC-As”. Jenetta had a distinct laugh, an infectious smile, an undeniably caring heart and a giving spirit. Her presence and personality can never be duplicated. She will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Jenetta was preceded in death by both husbands, James and John Henry, along with eleven siblings. She was also preceded in death by three children: James Jr., Charles and Betty; son-in-law, Roscoe Taylor Jr.; and grandson, Roscoe Taylor III.

 Jenetta leaves to cherish her loving memory one brother, Thomas Williams (Thelma); two daughters, Diane Taylor and Roxanne Yates; seventeen grandchildren: James III (Pam), Joseph, Christopher (Cree), Janita, DeWayne, Jeremy, Charles Larry Jr., Jermaine, Tanisha (Bryant), Colin, Jacqueline, Ashley (Zach), Antoinette (Amon Sr.), Damon Sr. (Kellie), Donald III (Rachel), Darren (Jayme) and Danielle (Kyle); a host of great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren.