George E. Johnson, the pioneering entrepreneur who built one of the first Black-owned companies to trade on a major U.S. stock exchange, has died at the age of 99. Johnson’s groundbreaking work in the beauty industry transformed Black hair care and paved the way for generations of Black-owned businesses.
Born in Mississippi and raised in Chicago, Johnson founded Johnson Products Company in 1954 after recognizing the lack of quality hair-care products specifically designed for Black consumers. His company introduced iconic brands including Ultra Sheen and Afro Sheen, which became household names in Black communities across the United States.
Johnson made history in 1971 when Johnson Products became the first Black-owned company to be listed on the NASDAQ. The achievement marked a major milestone for Black entrepreneurship during a time when access to capital and business opportunities remained limited.
Beyond his success in business, Johnson dedicated much of his life to philanthropy, investing in scholarships, mentorship programs, and economic development initiatives. His advertising campaigns celebrated Black pride and culture, helping reshape beauty standards during the civil rights era while creating thousands of jobs.
Johnson’s impact extended far beyond the beauty industry. His vision, perseverance, and commitment to empowering the Black community inspired generations of entrepreneurs and proved that Black-owned businesses could thrive on a national stage.
George E. Johnson leaves behind an extraordinary legacy as a trailblazer, businessman, philanthropist, and cultural icon whose influence will continue to inspire future generations.
