The story of Mama J’s begins during the childhood of Velma Johnson (affectionately known as Mama J), who was born one of fourteen children to Willard and Alease Roland. In their cozy home on the West End of Richmond, Velma and her siblings took part in all of the household chores, including helping their mother and grandmother in the kitchen as they prepared large family meals. This is where she learned the magic of the recipes that are now served at Mama J’s.