George E. Johnson Sr., the influential chemist and entrepreneur, passed away at his residence in Chicago. The Johnson family confirmed his death. Johnson resided at Water Tower Place and formerly in Glencoe, Illinois.
Johnson’s impact on post-World War II African Americans was significant. He founded Johnson Products Co., a leader in cosmetics and hair products for Black Americans. The company, established in 1954, offered products like Afro Sheen and Ultra Sheen, and supported ‘Soul Train.’ Its dominance demonstrated the potential for Black business leaders to build successful enterprises.
Born in 1927 in Richton, Mississippi, Johnson moved to Chicago at age two. He was industrious from a young age, doing various jobs like collecting milk bottles and shining shoes. Johnson told the Tribune in 2025 about his diverse experiences: “I went to the theater, the opera, dressed well, and stayed employed.”
He left high school early to join his brother as a salesman for Fuller Products. Later, he became Fuller’s head production chemist, gaining experience in creating beauty products. In an interview, Johnson credited Samuel B. Fuller’s ‘Golden Rule’ philosophy for his success.
After a decade, Johnson launched his own company with a hair-straightening formula developed for Orville Nelson, a stylist for stars like Nat King Cole. Johnson Products began in a rented space with a $250 loan. He reminisced about the hardship and determination required to find someone who believed in his vision.
By 1958, the business expanded its product range, occupying a larger warehouse by 1960. In 1964, revenues reached $1 million, and further growth included launching Afro Sheen. By 1970, sales hit $12 million and $37 million by 1975. In 1971, Johnson Products became the first Black-owned company on the American Stock Exchange.
Johnson’s sponsorship boosted ‘Soul Train,’ relocating its production to Chicago and increasing exposure for his products. His investment saw company sales grow to $40 million by 1977.
Facing larger competitors and FTC scrutiny, Johnson Products had to adjust, but the special warnings about lye in their products hurt sales significantly. Regardless, the company continued to thrive, partnering with Michael Jordan and his mother for endorsements in the 1980s.
Following a divorce in 1988, Johnson relinquished company control to his ex-wife, Joan, who sold Johnson Products to Ivax Corp in 1993. Johnson reflected on his disappointment with the company’s departure from the Black community.
George Johnson held significant roles outside his company. He co-founded Independence Bank in 1964, and served on the boards of several organizations, including Commonwealth Edison and the Chicago Urban League.
Johnson’s personal life included several marriages. He remarried his first wife in 1995, who later passed in 2019. He is survived by his third wife, Madeline Murphy Rabb, four children, ten grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren. Service arrangements are pending.
Bob Goldsborough provided this report as a freelance journalist.