Johnny Lee Coleman II

Johnny Lee Coleman II ("John or John John") Johnny Lee Coleman II, a devoted anthropologist, marketing consultant, and licensed tour guide specializing in ethnic marketing, passed away on January 21st, 2025 at the age of 49. Known for his dedication to promoting cultural understanding and celebrating diverse communities, Johnny left an indelible impact on everyone who knew him. Johnny was home-schooled before attending and graduating from Howard University in Washington, D.C. During his time at Howard, he broadened his horizons by studying internationally at the American University of Cairo in Egypt, with extended experiences in Israel. A skilled researcher, Johnny served as a Research Assistant to the late Dr. Lucille St. Hoyme within the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History's Department of Anthropology, working in the Terry Collection forensic lab. He was a Ronald T. McNair Fellow and contributed significant published work on the New York City African Burial Ground and the Pinkster Carnival. Johnny’s passion for connecting people to their heritage inspired his efforts to develop an ethnic marketing and tourism program for African-descended Americans to explore Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. His work earned him speaking invitations to prominent institutions including Georgetown University, Morgan State University, and the World Bank IFC. Johnny will be remembered not only for his professional accomplishments and his love for others but also for his deep faith in Christ, which shaped every aspect of his life. His reliance on God’s promises offers comfort to those mourning his loss, as we celebrate the assurance of eternal life he embraced through our Savior. Johnny was preceded in death by his mother, Leatha A. Coleman ("Tootsie"); his sister, Wilhelmenia Jettoo ("Menia"); and his brother, Vincent Ross ("Doc"). He is survived by his father, Johnny Lee Coleman Sr of Kankakee, Illinois; his brother, Mickey (Toya) Bentson of Teaneck, New Jersey; his sisters, Peggy (Shawn) Walker of Bronx, New York, and Ja'hnette "Cookie" (Cecil) Crawford of Springfield, Illinois. He also leaves behind several beloved nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends who will forever cherish his memory. John will be remembered for his sharp wit, generous spirit, and unforgettable laugh. He will be honored on at 11 a.m. on Saturday, February 1, 2025. His memorial will be taking place at Caldwell Chapel in Kankakee, IL at 805 N. Evergreen Ave. Kankakee, IL 60901.

Johnny Lee Coleman II

October 20, 1975 - January 21, 2025