Family, friends remember pioneering Chicago businessman George E. Johnson in South Side funeral

CHICAGO (WLS) -- George E. Johnson, a pioneering entrepreneur whose business achievements and philanthropy helped shape opportunities for African Americans, was honored during a funeral service at Trinity United Church of Christ in the city's Washington Heights neighborhood Friday.

Johnson, a child of the Great Migration from Mississippi, built his legacy in Chicago. From shining shoes as a child and working as a salesman, he went on to innovate products for African American hair and founded Johnson Products Company, which became the first African American-owned business to go public on the American Stock Exchange. Among the company's best-known products was Afro Sheen. Johnson also shared profits with employees throughout his career.

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"We give God thank, we give God praise for our noble man by the name of George Johnson," said the Rev. Otis Moss III of Trinity United Church of Christ during the service.

Friends and colleagues remembered Johnson not only for his business accomplishments but also for the opportunities he created for others.

"Here I was, a single mother with a high school diploma, no college, still residing in the Altgeld Gardens housing projects. Mr. Johnson helped me out of the projects," said Loisteen Woods-Walker, a friend of Johnson, drawing applause from attendees.

Beyond his business success, Johnson supported civil rights organizations, including Operation Breadbasket, which later became Rainbow PUSH. He also provided thousands of college scholarships and supported Black-owned enterprises such as Soul Train and Ariel Investments.

"He wasn't content to just sit back and enjoy what he built. George didn't just believe we could fly. He spent his whole life helping others take flight," said John Rogers of Ariel Investments.

Johnson died July 6 at his home. He was 99.

His son, Eric Johnson, said his father's life reflected the impact one person can make through dedication and conviction.

"My dad really represented what one individual can do when they're really committed to the things that they do, and in his case, the business matched with all of his personal beliefs. You know, when you live for 99 years and you've had such a close relationship, yes, we'll miss him, but this is not a time for real mourning. It's more a time for celebration of a life truly well-lived," Eric Johnson said.

Weeks before his death, Johnson attended a private opening at the Obama Presidential Center for the dedication of the Johnson Program Room. President Barack Obama also sent a written resolution to the family honoring Johnson's hard work and dedication to others.

The service at Trinity United Church of Christ celebrated both Johnson's life and the legacy he leaves through business, philanthropy and support for future generations.

Family and friends gathered Thursday at Leak and Sons funeral home to pay their respects.