Ms. Gennipha H. Rates

Gennipha Rates better known as "Genni" was born April 21, 1966, in Evanston, Illinois to the late George H and Milpha A. Rates. Genni was the youngest of two siblings. She was all about family and helping others. Genni loved the Lord and was baptized at an early age at Grace Lutheran Church. She regularly attended Sunday school and church at Grace Lutheran Church as well. Genni was educated through the Evanston
public system She attended Oakton Elementary, Chute Middle School, and earned her high school diploma from Evanston Township High School in 1984. After graduating from high school, Genni took college courses at Oakton Community College.

Genni was very loving and giving. She had a big heart and was always going above and beyond to make sure those that didn't have had, even if it meant giving her last. Genni was an excellent cook. She enjoyed growing her own vegetables from seeds. She also enjoyed baking and if you were lucky, she would make your favorite cake for your birthday.

Genni had six children who were the light of her world. She loved her children more than anything. In 2004, Genni met the love of her life, Sheanea Michelle Page. In 2009, the couple married. Genni didn't believe in the word step, her wife's two children were her bonus children whom she also adored.

Genni lived with her daughter Briana, who took care of her until her final days. On Friday, December 17, 2021, Gennipha made her transition into her eternal life where she was reunited with her loving parents, George and Milpha Rates.

Our beloved Gennipha leaves to cherish her memory and continue her legacy her wife, Sheanee Michelle Page;
eight children, De']uan Sr., Kyle, Briana, Kiara, Bevin, and Dakota Drew, Opra Vaughn, and Michelle Page; 15
grandchildren, Madison, De'] uan] L, Azalea, Kenneth, Mia, Cariyah, Avery, De'Monie, Joaquin, Ka'Liyah,
Dwayne, Dashiraya, Zayden, George, and Evelynn; one sister, Goyce; and a host of relative and friends. Please keep the family in your prayers.

Arrangements entrusted to Thompson Funeral & Cremation Services, Inc. Mr. Philip L. Gillette ~ Funeral Director

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