Genell Lingo was born in Albany, Georgia on September 23, 1950. She was the beloved daughter of the late James L. Lingo Sr. and Iola Brown Lingo. She accepted Christ at a very early age.

She received her formal education in the Dougherty County School System, including Monroe High School where she participated in various school activities and graduated in 1968.

As a young adult, Genell left Albany to pursue employment opportunities in Atlanta, Georgia. While in Atlanta, she worked in various culinary establishments while further honing her skills in culinary arts. She later returned to Albany as a young entrepreneur and established her restaurant and billiard parlor which she proudly named "Genell's Place." Oftentimes, she celebrated her accomplishment by entertaining her nieces and nephews at the restaurant.

Genell was characterized by her family and friends as a straight-forward, boisterous woman who was often unapologetic and unbossed; yet loving and supportive. She could make you laugh at almost anything—finding humor in the most sensitive situations. Her friendliness and kindness to all people, and her devotion and love for her family are lasting tributes to the beauty of her heart and soul. She had a deep sense of family loyalty, ties, and responsibilities, and cherished all gatherings with her great nieces and nephews.

Genell's memory will be cherished and kept alive by her devoted niece and nephew, Shonna Lingo Allen and Deadrick Lingo; siblings, Delphine Lingo, James Leon Lingo, Jr., and King Lingo; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.