Artesha Deanna Cox was born on May 26, 1992, in San Diego, California, to Natalie Genous and Arthur Cox. From an early age, Artesha was curious, playful, and full of life. She loved making people laugh, and her vivacious spirit and unforgettable smile could light up any room. At just five years old, Artesha began auditioning for commercials and pursuing modeling opportunities. She had a natural ability to entertain and enjoyed being in front of the camera.

When Artesha was ten, her family moved to Wildomar, and she spent much of her childhood and adolescence in the Murrieta area with her mother, her stepfather, Samuel Genous Sr., and her siblings. After graduating from Murrieta Valley High School, she worked as a medical office assistant, where she had the opportunity to help and care for others. Later, she earned a certificate in Medical Billing and Coding from High Desert Medical College, demonstrating her determination to continue learning and building a future for herself.

Artesha was affectionately nicknamed “Whowee” by her Aunt Felecia Speaks. As one of the older children in the family, she shared a special bond with her younger siblings. She enjoyed spending time with them, planning outings, playing games, and cooking for them. She was generous with her time and loved making the people around her feel cared for and appreciated.

One of Artesha’s greatest joys was being a mother to her beloved daughter, Ava’Marie Rose Lind. Ava was at the center of her world. Artesha poured her heart into caring for her daughter and creating special memories together. She loved bringing people together and creating an atmosphere filled with warmth, laughter, and love.

Laughter truly was a big part of who Artesha was. She was naturally funny and quick with a joke. She could turn an ordinary conversation into a cherished memory. Whether she was teasing someone she loved, making a funny observation, or simply being herself, she had a way of bringing smiles to those around her. Her loud, contagious laughter is something many will always remember.

Whether teasing someone she loved, sharing a funny observation, or simply being her wonderfully expressive self, Artesha knew when someone needed a smile. Her loud, contagious laughter connected her to others and remains a precious reminder of the unmistakable light she brought into our lives. 

Artesha also loved music and had playlists that reflected her vibrant personality. She especially loved the color yellow, including sunflowers and yellow roses. She cared deeply for her pets, Payday and Reese, who were very special to her. The beach was another place Artesha enjoyed. She loved listening to the waves, feeling the warmth of the sun, and simply taking in the peaceful surroundings. 

Matthew Shane was a big part of Artesha’s life. He cherished Artesha and embraced the life she had built with Ava. His love, support, and devotion to both of them became an important part of their family’s story. 

Artesha will be deeply missed by her mother, Natalie Genous; her dad, Samuel Genous Sr.; her beloved daughter, Ava’Marie Rose Lind; her siblings, Kraig Anders Jr., Sierra Estes, Kevin Little Jr., Samirra Genous, and Samuel Genous Jr.; her grandmother, Carolyn Harris; and Matthew Shane. 

She shared a particularly close bond with her brother Kevin Little Jr. and her cousins Kiana Batiste and Natisha Liddell. Her nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, and many dear friends will also cherish the memories they have of her. 

When we remember Artesha, we will remember her caring heart, her generosity, her sense of humor, her love for her family, and especially the way she could make people smile. 

Perhaps when we see something yellow, notice a sunflower or yellow rose, hear a familiar song, or retell one of Artesha’s funny stories and laugh again, we will be reminded of the warmth and joy she brought into the lives of those who knew and loved her.