Johna Cynthia Stokes

A Tribute to Her Life, Passions, and Legacy

Johna Cynthia Stokes was born on July 3, 1963, as the sole child of John Clinton Griggs and Bettie H. Gaskin. She spent her formative years in Los Angeles and graduated from Susan Miller Dorsey High School in 1981. Johna pursued further education in Mathematics at West Los Angeles College while concurrently working as a bookstore manager. During her tenure at Waldenbooks, she met her future husband, Larthur, they married in 1997, beginning a partnership that endured for 28 years.

Johna will be remembered for her warmth, generosity, and compassion. She consistently offered support to others and was respected during her 13 years at the Auto Club of Southern California. Her love for dogs showed in her dedication to animal shelters and care for pets.

Johna's affection for children was profound. Although she did not have any children of her own, she found great joy in nurturing and supporting the young ones in her extended family and among her friends.

Johna’s many interests brought joy both to herself and those around her. She was an enthusiastic fan of anime, immersing herself in its vibrant storytelling and artistry. Her passion for comic books and related memorabilia was well-known, and her impressive collection reflected her dedication and appreciation for the genre.

Johna’s creativity shone through in her love of cooking and baking—her homemade pies and cakes were a highlight at family gatherings, and she was always eager to share new recipes. She also enjoyed sewing, often crafting beautiful and thoughtful gifts for loved ones. A voracious reader, Johna especially treasured science fiction and romance novels, finding inspiration and comfort in their pages.

After bravely facing a lengthy illness, Johna departed this life on the morning of November 6, 2025. Though her parents and grandparents preceded her in death, Johna leaves behind a devoted family and a wide circle of friends who will continue to cherish her memory. She is survived by her loving husband, Larthur Stokes, her sister Verceller Griggs, and her brother John Griggs Jr.

Johna’s legacy endures through her husband, in-laws, nephews, nieces, cousins, and many friends whose lives she touched with her friendship, compassion, and vibrant spirit. May her memory continue to inspire kindness and love in all who knew her.

A Gentle Light

Witnessing Johna’s gentle light each day was my greatest blessing. In every shared laugh and in her special cheesecakes, I felt her care and joy for life. Even now, though she is gone, her warmth lingers in my memories, in the hearts of those she loved, and in the dreams we dreamed together. I strive to let her spirit guide me through life’s twists and turns, inspiring me—and all who knew her—to love without end.

Your kind words, gestures, and presence have brought comfort and strength to our family, reminding us of the profound impact Johna had on all who were fortunate enough to know her. We are deeply grateful for your compassion and friendship as we honor her memory together.

Larthur Stokes