Life Story of Jonetta Tutt Tolbert
October 21, 1973 – December 6, 2025

Jonetta (affectionately known in later years as “Johnetta”) Tutt Tolbert was born on October 21, 1973, in Cleveland, Ohio, to her loving parents, John and Barbara Tutt. Although her birth name was spelled Jonetta, in true Jonetta fashion, she walked to the beat of her own drum. She chose to spell it “Johnetta” as a personal tribute to her father, John — a reflection of her deep love for him and her vibrant, one-of-a-kind spirit. It was a name that became uniquely hers, just like the unforgettable life she lived.

From the very beginning, Jonetta carried a glow that made people feel her presence. She wasn’t simply someone you met — she was someone you experienced. Her smile warmed rooms, her laugh uplifted hearts, and her love wrapped itself around everyone fortunate enough to know her. Jonetta attended Cleveland Heights High School before transferring to Glenville High School, where destiny introduced her to the young man who would become her lifelong partner, soulmate, and best friend — Shelly Tolbert. Their beautiful love story began in the 11th grade in 1991 and blossomed into nearly three decades of devotion. Together, they welcomed their beloved daughter, Shakeenah Ahnai Tutt Tolbert, on October 3, 1995. On August 15, 1998, Jonetta married the love of her life, creating a home filled with laughter, loyalty, and unwavering partnership.

Family was the heartbeat of Jonetta’s world. She was a devoted wife, mother, daughter, sister, cousin, and friend — and she poured love into every one of those roles. Her relationship with her daughter, Shakeenah Ahnai Tutt Tolbert, was one-of-a-kind. Shakeenah was her number one dance partner and ultimate turn-up buddy. Though they were mother and daughter, they moved through life more like sister-girlfriends, sharing laughs, secrets, music, and a bond that can never be broken. Her greatest joy came with the arrival of her grandson, Samuel Marcel Jawon Scott Jr., affectionately known as “Munch Man.” She gave him his nickname before he was born, already claiming him with the fullness of her heart. Jonetta was affectionately known as “Gammie” to Munch, and the two of them shared a relationship all their own — a bond filled with love, joy, and a connection that only they understood.

Professionally, Jonetta was dedicated and dependable, serving more than 21 years as an Administrative Assistant at Cleveland Planting. Her work ethic, organization, warm spirit, and ability to make everyone feel welcomed made her a beloved part of the workplace family. She brought the same kindness and positivity to her job that she brought to every area of her life. Jonetta was the ultimate people person. She had a natural, effortless ability to make anyone feel like family. You could place her in a room full of strangers, and within minutes she’d made new friends, shared new laughs, and likely connected her phone to someone’s Bluetooth to get the playlist going. If music was playing, Jonetta was moving. She loved dancing, and there wasn’t a line dance she didn’t know. When her favorite song came on, she was the first one on her feet. She loved hosting gatherings and attending family and friends’ celebrations. Her home was a hub of warmth, laughter, and joy — a place where everyone felt safe and loved. Whether the event was big or small, Jonetta’s presence made it unforgettable.

Her humor was legendary. You couldn’t have a conversation with Jonetta without smiling. She had a gift with words — playful, uplifting, and full of love. Even her text messages carried her essence, often filled with encouragement, positivity, and that signature Jonetta sparkle: “Wishing you a great week! May it be filled with positive vibes, productivity, prosperity, and an overwhelming load of love.” And her style? Immaculate. Jonetta was a true fashionista. From her flawless makeup to her golden hair to her trend-setting outfits, she stepped out with confidence every single time. Whether dressed casually or fully glam, she stood out effortlessly — beautiful, radiant, unforgettable. Jonetta passed away on December 6, 2025, at 10:41 a.m., leaving behind a legacy of joy, beauty, laughter, and love everlasting.

She leaves to cherish her memory her devoted husband, Shelly Tolbert; her loving daughter, Shakeenah Ahnai Tutt Tolbert; her precious grandson, Samuel Marcel Jawon Scott Jr. (“Munch Man”); her parents, John and Barbara Tutt; her sister, Khadija Tutt; her father-in-law, Shelly L. Tolbert; her mother-in-law, Alice Tolbert; her brother-in-law, Dimitrius Turner; and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family, and lifelong friends who loved her deeply