Geneva Mann was born on January 17, 1932, in Miami, Florida to the late Julia Debro Williams and Arthur Small. She received her education in the Miami Dade Public School System in 1956. She married Willie James Mann (Wali Bilal). To this union, two children were born: Arthur James Mann and Emma Louise Mann Kates (Yasmeen),who all preceded her in death.

Geneva was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. She was employed by the Lee family in Lakeland, Georgia for more than 25 years. Geneva's passion was cooking, washing, ironing, and taking care of children. All of the kids called her “Deya”. She became well-known in Lakeland and was loved by anyone who met her.

She was a very loving, caring, generous, loyal, positive, and protective person. In 1971, Geneva joined the Muslim religion in Chicago, Illinois. She was a very active member. She enjoyed going to the mosque, making bean pies, and delicious carrot cakes. On October 30, 2022, Geneva went from labor to reward.

She leaves to cherish her memories ‎ two sisters: Ethel Pearl Small Oliver and Elizabeth Small both of Miami, FL.; Grandchildren: Thomas Kates (Casshondra) of Bradenton Fl., Omar and Hassan Kates both of Valdosta GA., Aiesha Suleiman (Raed) of Valdosta GA., Jameelah Kates of Atlanta, GA., Latoya Geddis (Terrance), Ebony Clemons (Travis), Tashe Mann all of Charleston, S.C., Nicole Milligan of Orlando Fl.; 27 great-grands; 11 great great-grands; a loving nephew: Virgil Oliver; special daughter-n-law: Jean Mann; and host of nieces, nephews, and friends.

Final rites are entrusted into the hands of Harrington Funeral Home Inc. The Home of the Morticians 🕊 “We're Not Just a Funeral Home, We're A Family Serving Your Family.

Mrs. Mann's Funeral Services will be held on Thursday, November 03, 2022, at 1:30 PM with Graveside Services from the Pallbearers Cemetery.