Charles Wilton Johnson

Charles (Cee Jai) Wilton Johnson Jr. was called home on January 1, 2025, at the age of 64.

 

Charles was born on December 14, 1960, to the late Charles Wilton Johnson Sr. and Ruthie Mae Hawkins-Johnson, in Monroe, Louisiana. He later relocated with his family to Ohio, where he graduated from Linden-McKinley High School in 1978. Following his graduation, Charles enlisted in the military where he served in the United States Air Force where he was honorably discharged. After concluding his military service, Charles worked at The Wine Cellar, where he served as an apprentice to the Executive Chef.

 

Charles went on to hold several chef positions in highly accredited hotels and restaurants. He was admired and received several awards for his unique ice sculptures. His exceptional skills were often requested for events of all sizes, including exclusive A-list functions in local and surrounding areas. He celebrated many accomplishments during his culinary career.

 

Anyone who had the pleasure of tasting Cee Jai's cooking would agree, he was an extraordinary chef. Though, he brought more to the table than good food. He carried a big heart, a humorous personality, and a selfless approach to life. Cee Jai had a lot of love to give, he was a support system and father figure to many, he loved being surrounded by family and friends. His greatest joy and proudest achievements were his 2 children and 5 grandchildren.

 

He was preceded in death by his father, Charles Wilton Johnson Sr., and his mother, Ruthie Mae Hawkins-Johnson (affectionately known as Dear). Lifelong best friend Christopher Fair. He is survived by his sisters, Bernava (Clyde) Gafeney and Zola Johnson; his brothers, Michael, Gerald, and Thomas Johnson; his children, Christopher and Christina Johnson; and grandchildren, Keontae, Kristiana, Kyana Johnson, Antoine, and Amya Bussey; nephews, Daryll (Damitra), Mario (Iesha) Johnson, and Jordache Terrell; nieces, Tiffany, Taiisha, Tia, and Tanisha Johnson, Mi'chael Johnson, Kiara Terrell, Ashlee, and Alexandria Baylor, Nachele, Mir'Hykel-Ann Culbreath;. He also leaves behind God-grandchildren Cherish, and Cali Davis-Adams, Moorshaya and Malaysia Fair as well as a host of other relatives, lifelong friends, and loved ones.

 

Ackowledgements

The family would like to express our deepest appreciation for the kindness and sympathy extended to us during this time. Thank you for your love and support.