Condolences: George E. Johnson, Pioneer Of Black Hair Care Products Such As Ultra Sheen & Afro Sheen, Passes Away At 99

George E. Johnson

Condolences: George E. Johnson, Pioneer Of Black Hair Care Products Such As Ultra Sheen & Afro Sheen, Passes Away At 99

Sad news.

Chicago businessman George E. Johnson, founder of Johnson Products, has d!ed at 99, a spokesperson confirmed on Monday (July 6). Johnson launched the company in 1954 with a $500 loan, originally aiming at hair care products for Black men, but the business found its biggest success in the women’s market with Ultra Sheen. Johnson Products went on to become the first Black-owned company listed on the American Stock Exchange.

Beyond hair care, Johnson founded Independence Bank in 1964 and served as the exclusive sponsor of the music and dance series #SoulTrain. His work earned him several honors, including Ebony Magazine’s American Black Achievement Award in 1978 and the Harvard Club’s Public Service Award in 1979, the latter recognizing his philanthropic efforts through the George E. Johnson Foundation and Educational Fund.