George E. Johnson Dies at 99, Founder Built $31 Million Black Hair-Care Pioneer
Updated
Updated · Chicago Sun-Times · Jul 6
George E. Johnson Dies at 99, Founder Built $31 Million Black Hair-Care Pioneer
3 articles · Updated · Chicago Sun-Times · Jul 6
Summary
George E. Johnson died Monday morning of natural causes at his downtown Chicago condo, his son said, closing the life of the Johnson Products founder at 99.
Founded in 1954, Johnson Products grew from Johnson’s early hair-straightener venture into a multimillion-dollar business; by 1974 it was posting more than $31 million in annual sales.
In 1971, the company became the first Black-owned business to trade on the American Stock Exchange, selling brands including Ultra Sheen and Afro Sheen and sponsoring "Soul Train."
Johnson’s rise began after a bank rejected his initial $250 loan request; he later said a second branch approved the money after he invented a vacation story to fit racist expectations.
His company’s products and advertising helped reshape Black consumer marketing and images of Black professional life, while his philanthropy funded college opportunities for minority students.
From Wall Street pioneer to a sold company, what is the future of George Johnson's groundbreaking business legacy?
How did one hair product brand help define the 'Black is Beautiful' movement and an entire cultural era?
From Sharecropper’s Son to Industry Pioneer: The Life, Legacy, and Impact of George E. Johnson, Sr. (1927–2026)
Overview
On July 6, 2026, George E. Johnson, Sr. passed away at 99, prompting immediate and widespread recognition of his profound impact. Major publications, including The New York Times, quickly signaled the significance of his legacy, announcing a forthcoming detailed obituary. Johnson was celebrated for fostering a vibrant and diverse environment at Johnson Products Company, reflecting his forward-thinking approach to workforce development and creating opportunities for people from various backgrounds. Beyond business, he was a dedicated philanthropist, with his contributions to numerous causes noted as a significant part of his enduring legacy.