Carolyn Ruth Johnson

Carolyn Ruth Johnson of California, MO passed away on Monday, January 17, 2022 at Capital Region Medical Center in Jefferson City, MO.  She was born December 6, 1954, the daughter of the late Carl E. Johnson and the late Ruby (Reese) Johnson.

Carolyn was a graduate of California High School where she excelled in track and volleyball.  Upon high school graduation, she became employed with the former Cheseborough Ponds Company, Unilever, in Jefferson City following her ambition to work in the beauty industry.  She is a graduate of Merrill University School of Cosmetology in Jefferson City.  She was a licensed cosmetologist in Jefferson City for more than 38 years.  She continued her education in the cosmetology field by attending hairstylist shows, seminars and workshops throughout the country.

She was united in marriage for more than 45 years to the late Frederick “Freddie” Johnson, Sr. of California, MO.  To this union they had three children, Freddie Jr. and Angela and Phillip Johnson. 

Carolyn is a second generation of the Johnson Hair Care Profession following in the footsteps of her father the late Carl E. Johnson, owner of Johnson Barber Shop in the historic district, “The Foot”.  Carolyn was a mentor and employer to many female students attending Lincoln University.  She introduced many to the art of hair care and entrepreneurship.  Some of her mentees are now cosmetologist.  She was frequently the stylist for the Royal Court at Lincoln University.  Carolyn supported charitable causes especially those which supported youth in their pursuit for education in California and Jefferson City with prominent ads in journals.  Carolyn, following the footsteps of her parents helped anyone and everyone in need.  She was a gifted seamstress in designing and making clothes for her grandchildren and window treatments for friends, craft designer, crochet maker, and wonderful cook.  All family holiday meals were held at her home.  She was a member of Mt. Zion Methodist Church in California for years and later was baptized at Mt. Vernon Church in Holts Summit.  She received several awards from numerous organizations to include but not limited to: NAACP and Lincoln University.

Survivors include her son, Frederick, Jr. of California, MO and daughter Angela (Kevin) Murphy of Texas, brothers, Carl Jr., Marshall, Steve, Mike, and grandchildren Genevive, Miles and Harper, brother-in-law, nieces, nephews, cousins and numerous customers and friends.  And her furry best friend, DINKY.

Along with her parents and her husband, a son, Phillips J. Johnson and sister Barbara Jackson preceded her in death.

Visitation will be Saturday, January 29, 2022 from 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM at the United Methodist Church of California, MO with the Funeral Service beginning at 1:00 PM.  Burial will follow at the California City Cemetery.  Memorials in her name are suggested to the United Methodist Church of California, MO.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of Phillips Funeral Home of California, MO. 

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