Tina Knowles-Lawson to share the loving remembrance she posted about her late brother Johnny. In doing so, he changed the course of his family’s life, most notably that of his legendary daughters, Beyoncé and Solange. Known as much for his inventiveness and exuberance as for his groundbreaking artistic endeavors, Johnny touched the lives of everyone who came into contact with him. Beyond changing the world of fashion, he was an extraordinary mentor and friend, greatly loved by his family.
At only 18 years old, Johnny jumped head first into the style scene. He would hang out at a popular nightclub named the Kon Tiki to become more acquainted with the scene. This venue became the setting for some of his formative experiences in the LGBTQ+ community. It was Burlington where he truly found his place as a designer though. His love for designing breathtaking clothing encouraged him to produce extraordinary dresses that mesmerized thousands. One of his designs even won its way into an award-winning Beyoncé song!
Despite facing health challenges, Johnny exhibited resilience. Although his doctor helped him with temporary relief through medication, Jared continued to battle. Even so, his devotion to family never wavered and he remained extraordinarily connected with family, especially his niece and nephew. He would sit back and hear their stories and provide the best advice that he could, demonstrating his compassionate heart.
A watershed moment for Johnny came when he was about to turn 10, an especially stressful birthday for families of children with disabilities. They did their best to think of his future and collectively fought against his spirit. As he transitioned into adulthood, he found himself developing a preference for mobility aids. He was favorite to borrow a wheelchair so that a relative could wheel him outdoors. This little pleasure really exemplified how much he was missing out on through his urge to experience the world around him.
Johnny was four years younger than another one of his siblings. Their connection seemed every bit a best-friend platonic connection. He quickly became a trusted adult in their lives, particularly when it came to talking about self-identity, fashion, and self-express. Johnny’s genius was not limited to the art of personal styling. He became well known for designing incredible gowns for drag queens, developing close relationships with the dynamic drag circuit.
His years of service to the community had not been forgotten. Johnny became synonymous with putting together stunning looks for performers, earning respect and admiration from his peers. He brought a never-before-seen family member to their first drag show, and his after-burning impact cannot be overstated. This amazing experience strengthened their friendship and broadened their horizons to the diverse world of performing arts.
Entrepreneurially and financially savvy, Johnny generated a steady stream of revenue from his fashion pursuits. This accomplishment flipped the rent on the second floor of his duplex to his name. This fierce independence was an expression of his personality and will to survive no matter the odds stacked against him.
Johnny was openly gay and never hesitated to wave this flag. His unapologetic authenticity inspired those around him. In addition to all of that, he played a big part in raising Solange’s daughters, frequently creating wigs and getting crafty with them. This ever-nurturing side of Johnny highlighted his capacity to reach younger generations and share important, sometimes even hard-earned life lessons through fashion.
The bond he shared with Solange was truly one of a kind, rooted in deep admiration and affection. It wasn’t without its drawbacks. Johnny received harsh treatment from Solange when he turned down offers or help. He remained in charge of his own narrative. Bursting with ideas, energy and passion, he threw himself into a wide range of other projects.
“Uncle Johnny made my dress.” – Beyoncé
Johnny’s story will always be preserved by the people who loved him. His creativity, compassion, and exuberant soul are living on through family members and friends who continue to be inspired by his light and love. His exceptional life continues to be a testament to what authenticity and individuality can inspire us all to become.