Joann Johnson

JoAnn Johnson, 72, passed away peacefully on December 15, 2024, at St. Luke’s Hospice House in Kansas City, MO. She was born on February 29, 1952, in Buckner, AR, to Willie and Victoria Gatlin. JoAnn grew up in Magnolia, AR, and graduated from Columbia High School, where she excelled in basketball, volleyball, and cheerleading.

JoAnn worked at the Kansas City Blood Bank and Hallmark Cards before retiring from Ford Motor Company in Claycomo, MO. Her brief stint as a model for Shelly’s Tall Girl boutique showed her elegant 6-foot frame, where she confidently owned the runway.

Known as “The Queen of QVC,” JoAnn could spot a bargain faster than anyone. Her home was a treasure trove of gadgets and finds—most still in the box. She was also an avid cooking show fan, always ready to share tips from her favorite celebrity chefs, even if her family joked about her preference of looking at recipes to making them.

JoAnn was also a very generous woman. Her generosity was not only shown to her family and friends, but her philanthropic spirit extended to several charities. JoAnn was a southern girl with a big city mentality. She enjoyed fine cuisine and shopping and always sharing her taste with her family. If you needed it, more than likely JoAnn had it.

Joann was proceeded in death by both her parents.

She is survived by one son Kamau Shabazz (Tajuana) 3 grandchildren, Antonio, Jahmil, and Alijah and 2 great grandchildren Amari and Alani. Sister Diana Dotson, Brother Larry D. Dotson (Rosalind), Brother Kenneth Smith (Turshia), Sister Deborah Dawkins all of Kansas City MO. A host of nieces and nephews whom she adored.