George E. Johnson Sr., founder of a pioneering black hair care business, dies
CHICAGO (AP) — George E. Johnson Sr., a pioneer in black hair care whose multimillion dollar business was the first black-owned company to be listed on the American Stock Exchange, has died at age 99, according to his family. Johnson died Monday at his home in downtown Chicago. A cause of death was not released. Johnson and his late wife, Joan, started Johnson Products in 1954 on Chicago's South Side after securing a $250 loan. It grew into a hair care empire catering almost exclusively to black people, with brands like Afro Sheen and Ultra Sheen. His company was a national sponsor ...
