Geneva Hairston

Evangelist Geneva T. Hairston was born on July 14, 1953, in Welch, West Virginia, the beloved daughter of Mary and Charles Henry Tolliver. One of eleven siblings, she grew up surrounded by the love, strength, and faith that would later define her life and ministry. Geneva graduated from Northfork High School in 1973. After completing her education, she moved from Kyle, WV, and spent several years living in Manhattan, New York. 

She began her career serving others as a Certified Nursing Assistant at Glenwood Nursing Home. In 1987, Geneva gave her life to Christ under the pastoral leadership of Bishop Barry Early—an encounter that transformed her journey and ignited her calling. In 1995, she answered the Lord’s voice and preached her first sermon at J.H. Easley Tabernacle, marking the beginning of her ministry as an Evangelist. 

In 1997, Geneva moved to Columbus, Ohio, where she became a devoted member of Rhema Christian Center until her later relocation to Florida. While in Columbus, her lifelong passion for nurturing and caring for children continued to shine brightly. In 1999, she opened her own home-based childcare, dedicating 18 years to pouring love, strength, and purpose into every child who crossed her threshold. Her childcare was never just a business—it was a true extension of her ministry and her heart. 

Our mother was a true prayer warrior, a woman whose love for God radiated in every aspect of her life. She would do anything for anyone she met, offering prayer, support, or a helping hand without hesitation. Her steadfast relationship with the Lord was evident in her generosity, her compassion, and her unwavering commitment to sharing God’s word. 

Evangelist Geneva was preceded in death by her parents, Charles Henry and Mary Tolliver, former husband Ronald Hairston, and her brothers, Charles “Sambo” Reese, James Tolliver, Haywood (Thea) Tolliver, Harold, and Ada Martin. 

She leaves to cherish her precious memory her children: Dr. Katina (Major) Foley of Pickerington, OH; Sherylle Tolliver of Columbus, OH; and Ronald Lamond Hairston of Columbus, OH. She was a proud and loving grandmother to Shakya Allen, Giana Tolliver, Malecia Ortiz, Nazirah Hairston, Major Foley Jr., and Kassius Hairston; and great-grandmother to Graycyn Hester, Gianna Allen, and Ny’Omi Mickens. 

She is also survived by her siblings: Rosa Lee Reese of Atlanta, GA; Benny Tolliver of Manhattan, NY; Creola Mainor of Jersey City, NJ; Claudia (Joe) Webb of Grand Blanc, MI; Eugene (Barbara) Tolliver of Bloomfield, NJ; and Evelyn Tolliver of Columbus, OH, along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, church family, and friends who will forever honor her legacy. Evangelist Geneva T. Hairston lived a life rooted in faith, guided by love, and anchored in service. Her legacy will continue to shine through every life she touched.