Life and Legacy of Leonard P. Johnson  

Leonard P. Johnson  

Born: April 29, 1946  

Died: December 2, 2024, at the age of 78  

Leonard P. Johnson, a man of unmatched charm, talent, and love for life, passed away peacefully at the age of 78. Born on April 29, 1946, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Leonard was the beloved only child of Ann Johnson. He was raised with his mother, grandparents, aunt, and uncle.

Leonard attended William Shoemaker Junior High School and then graduated from Overbrook High School in 1964. His academic journey continued at Delaware State College after serving in the Vietnam War, where his athleticism and charisma earned him a basketball scholarship after honing his skills at Haddington Recreation Center. Though he initially chose ping pong over basketball in high school, his undeniable talent for the game led him to collegiate competition, where he shined both on and off the court. His competitive spirit and passion for basketball remained a constant throughout his life, even as he transitioned into other ventures.

Leonard’s passion for people and creativity extended beyond the basketball court. After starting his career as a retail shoe salesman, he found his true calling as a master cosmetologist. With his gifted hands and visionary branding, Leonard transformed his passion from doing hair in his basement to opening his own hair salon called “Jellybean Hair Salon”. The name “Jellybean” was inspired by a woman who once said that “women are like jellybeans, they come in all shapes and sizesand colors”. Leonard embraced diversity and individuality, making every client feel beautiful and celebrated.

His ingenuity didn’t stop at creating iconic hair styles and hair products. Leonard was a master showman who dazzled audiences at hair shows with his expert cuts and vibrant personality. For marketing and branding expansion, he rode the Market-Frankfort line (EL train) in Philadelphia, to acquire new business by passing out flyers to ALL women. Lenny proudly passed out business cards, growing his clientele and leaving a lasting impression wherever he went. His salon was always filled with music, laughter, and his lively storytelling, making it more than a place for hair—it was an experience. Known for his meticulous attention to detail, Leonard ensured that his clients left looking their best and feeling even better.

After dedicating over three decades to his craft, Leonard retired from the hair industry due to health challenges. In his later years, he focused on strengthening the bonds with his family, particularly his sons, whom he loved.

Lenny is survived by his six sons: Leonard Johnson Jr., Leonard Daniels (Nicole), Dane Robertson, Andre Murphy (Danea), Kenneth Murphy, and Kasim Brooks; ten adoring grandchildren; and one great-grandchild, cousins, and friends. His legacy of creativity, passion, and love will live on through his family and the countless lives he touched. 

As we remember Lenny, we celebrate a man who loved people, gave his time generously, and lived boldly. May his memory inspire us to embrace life with the same warmth, humor, and tenacity that he carried throughout his remarkable journey.

Send to someone

Share this obituary with others

https://everloved.com/life-of/leonard-p-johnson/obituary/

Copy