Jonith Johnson Sr. was born on June 29, 1952, in Birmingham, Alabama. He was raised by his mother Alicia Dei and later adopted by his stepfather General Johnson. He spent his early years sharing a loving bond with his younger sister, Felesa Johnson. In 1963, at the age of 11, Jonith and his family relocated to Long Beach, California, where he would go on to make significant contributions to the world of technology and engineering.
Jonith's educational journey included Long Beach Polytechnic High School and California State University Long Beach, where he earned a degree in Electronic Engineering. His relentless pursuit of knowledge and innovation would shape his remarkable career.
During the 1970s, Jonith achieved a groundbreaking milestone when he invented the personal car phone, a testament to his visionary mind and inventive spirit. Throughout his 48-year career as an electrical engineer, Jonith worked at prestigious organizations such as Northrop Corporation, Southern California Edison, and Automobile Club of Southern California. In addition to his corporate endeavors, he ventured into entrepreneurship, building personal computers during the 1980s and 1990s, long before they became household staples.
Jonith was a dedicated husband to his beloved spouse, Dorothy Johnson, whom he married on August 5, 1982. Together, they built a life filled with love, support, and cherished moments for them and their children. In 1991, Jonith and Dorothy co-founded Johnson Manor, a group home for children. Jonith assumed the role of Executive Director, dedicating 15 years of his life to making a positive impact on the lives of numerous young individuals.
Jonith was known for his love of technology, passion for movies, and deep appreciation for nature. He cherished family moments and enjoyed traveling with his loved ones.
Jonith is survived by his devoted spouse of 41 years, Dorothy Johnson, and their children, Tivia Strother, Tamela Bow and her husband Jamel Bow, Jonith Johnson Jr. and his wife Ariana Johnson, and Jelesa Johnson; his grandchildren, Aria Johnson, Amaya Johnson, and Jeriah Bow; his uncle and aunt, Frank and Ethel Bell; his cousins, Ray Harris, Belinda Williams, Theresa Campbell, Valerie Biving, and a host of other family members.
Jonith was preceded in death by his parents, General Johnson and Alicia Dei, his sister Felesa Johnson, and his grandchild, Little Tivia Taiona.
His remarkable life, innovative spirit, and enduring love for family and technology will be cherished and remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Jonith's legacy is an inspiration to us all, a testament to the heights that can be reached through dedication and a deep love for those around us.
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