Friends, family and fans say goodbye to Memphis rapper Gangsta Boo

SOUTHAVEN, Miss. (WMC) — Hundreds gathered for the funeral of Memphis rapper Lola “Gangsta Boo” Mitchell on Saturday.

The service, which was also streamed online, was held at Brown Missionary Baptist Church in Southaven, Mississippi. Speakers were joined by members of the Mitchell family, musicians, as well as local and state politicians.

“Lola was more than just a Memphis legend,” said Shelby County Commissioner Mikell Lowry. “He was also a hip-hop legend.”

Mitchell’s boyfriend of nine years, Emmett Flores, told Action News 5 after the funeral how grateful he was that Memphis made him the person he fell in love with.

“I’m so grateful to the city of Memphis for having such an impact on Lola,” Flores said. “Everything I learned from her came from Memphis, and I’m grateful for that.”

Known as the “Queen of Memphis,” Mitchell paved the way for female rappers around the world. She was the first female member of the Oscar-winning rap group Three 6 Mafia and is credited with paving the way for Chastity “La Chat” Daniels to become the second female in the group.

“It’s tough out here,” Daniels told Action News 5 at a private gathering after the service. “I’m going to miss her so much, but I know she’s still here,” Daniels said while pointing to her heart.

Rising star and fellow Memphis native Gloria “GloRilla” Woods felt the same way. The current nominee for Best Rap Performance at the upcoming Grammy Awards said Mitchell broke down barriers that allowed her and many other female rappers to shine.

“She will forever be a Queen,” Woods told Action News 5. “Long live Lola, we’re dressing for you.”

Mitchell died on January 1; the cause of her death is still unknown. He was 43 years old.

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