Geodora Elizabeth Johnson

Geodora Elizabeth Johnson was born on Monday April 22, 1957, in New York City (Born in Man hattan, but The Boogie Down BRONX raised her). Geodora Elizabeth Johnson, was affectionately known as “Gigi” “Ms G” “Mama G” “Arabia” “Geo” “Queen Afriess” and or “Big sis”. Geodora was the beloved daughter of Naomi and George Johnson. She was the Oldest and Boldest Child of 4 siblings. Geodora was just 14 years old when her mother Naomi Carathers (Johnson) passed away and she then moved to live with her beloved Nana, Marion E. Jones. During the time of living with her nana she learned so much. She learned how to sew, she learned God, resilience, practical skills (cooking, cleaning etc.), hardwork, how to love and all. She always talked about how her nana walked up 12 flights of stairs in NYCHA with crutches, so she has no excuse in life! At the age of 19, after the passing of her nana, Geodora took on the responsibilities of raising her sister Gloria.

In 1975, Geodora graduated from Mable Dean Bacon Vocational High School in NYC. In 1982 she went on to attend Hunter College (when college was free!) and obtained her Business Management Associate’s Degree in 1984. Geodora worked at NYU and then started her civil service career in 1986 with the New York City Department of Corrections. Geodora retired from NYC corrections in 2002. Post retirement, In 2008 she completed her Bachelor’s in Science Health Promotion Management at CUNY - York College. She also went on to obtain her CASAC (Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor) that same year 2008 and started her new career journey as a Mental Health Counselor. This was her true passion, helping/nurturing people. Geodora was always a strong advocate for Black People, Black Life, African Ancestors, Healing work, Health and wellness. 

Geodora joined St. Paul Community Baptist church of Brooklyn in 1996 and was a faithful member even after she moved to Greensboro. She loved Bishop Dr. Johnny Ray Youngblood. His pastoring and teachings brought her so much life. St. Pauls introduced her to so many ministries. She was a part of Wounded Healers, Jewel Ministry, The Noble Touch Team, Prayer Intercessing, amongst other ministries.  She was affectionately known as “The Gift Giver”, often giving her time, counsel, advice, money, kind words, prayers and many other non tangible “gifts” to many people. She would connect to any and everybody, she was truly an angel sent from GOD. If you knew her you LOVED her. Her most favorite saying was “Believe in God for Everything” and that she did! She kept GOD in everything she did and faith of a mustard seed and planted seeds in everyone around her. Geodora often spent her time in bible study and praying for countless others in need. She definitely lived her life as a BELIEVER IN GOD.  Her other infamous line was “Why Not Me?”. Her faith never quivered, only stronger when she was in the ring of fire.

Back in her day she would always answer a phone call with “Peace”, what a greeting that was, It was her greeting to your inner spirit. On Monday August 4, 2025, in Greensboro NC, Geodora peacefully transitioned to her eternal resting place as one of God’s soldiers at the age of 68. She greeted her ancestors with PEACE and a smile on her face. During the time of her passing, Geodora was surrounded by her loving family at home just as she requested. Geodora is survived by her daughters, Katrina Bingham and QueenShadaira Knight, her GrandKing Jah-Mair Aubrey, her sister Gloria Rivers, her brothers Darrin and Darryl Carathers, her bonus brother Darryl (Kareem) Hickman, her nephew and niece Daquan and Shadia Carathers. Her bonus children, Velma, Mone, and Gerald Simpson, Bonus GrandChildren and countless other cousins, church children, family members and friends. 

She will be missed by all those whose lives she touched and we are all blessed and lucky to have shared space with such a thoughtful soul. May she foreer rest in paradise.

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