Elease Johnson, often referred to incorrectly as Elise Johnson, gained significant recognition primarily because of her connection to her father, Bumpy Johnson.
This infamy derived from Bumpy’s notorious reputation as a crime boss in Harlem during the mid-20th century. Despite passing in 2006, conversations about her often emerge, highlighting the complexities of life shaped by her father’s legacy.
Who Was Bumpy Johnson?
Born Ellsworth Raymond Johnson on October 31, 1905, in Charleston, South Carolina, Bumpy Johnson earned his nickname in childhood due to a distinctive bump on his head.
Johnson rose to prominence in the 1930s as a key figure in Harlem’s underworld, initially aligning himself with infamous mobster Stephanie St. Claire, later forging ties with Charles “Lucky” Luciano. As a gang leader, Johnson commanded respect and fear, becoming known as the “Godfather of Harlem.”
Besides his criminal activities, Johnson was known for his philanthropic efforts within the Harlem community. His keen intellect and strategic mind earned him another moniker, “The Professor.”
However, his lifestyle led to legal troubles, culminating in a 15-year prison sentence for narcotics in 1952. After his release in 1963, he resumed his activities until he died in 1968, which was attributed to heart failure in a local restaurant.
Source: https://www.perryfuneralhome.com/
The Family Context: Mayme Hatcher Johnson
Elease Johnson was Bumpy Johnson’s child from a previous relationship before his marriage to Mayme Hatcher, a significant figure in Bumpy’s life. Mayme was born in 1914 and had a storied career in her own right, eventually penning a biography titled “Harlem Godfather” to share experiences and the reality of her husband’s life.
The couple married in 1948 and had one daughter together, Ruthie. Mayme remained a pivotal part of Bumpy’s life until his demise in 1968 and continued to honor his legacy until passing in 2009.
The Struggles of Elease Johnson
She faced numerous challenges throughout life due to Bumpy Johnson’s notorious reputation. Growing up in the shadow of such a figure, her path was fraught with difficulties, especially with the stigma surrounding family background.
Unfortunately, she encountered personal struggles with substance addiction, which plagued Elease for many years. This addiction affected the ability to pursue higher education and maintain stability in life.
In 2006, tragic circumstances led to Elease’s untimely passing, the same year half-sister, Ruthie, died. The exact cause of death remains unclear; however, some sources cite heart complications related to prolonged substance abuse. The emotional turmoil stemming from her father’s criminal activities evidently cast a long shadow over life choices.
The Connection with Malcolm X
A notable aspect of Elease Johnson’s life is her alleged romantic connection with Malcolm X. The two reportedly knew each other through Bumpy Johnson, a longtime friend of Malcolm X.
Their friendship deepened during the tumultuous 1960s when Malcolm X severed ties with the Nation of Islam. Although it is documented that Elease and Malcolm were never married, some accounts suggest a romantic relationship existed at one point.
In popular media, particularly in the series “Godfather of Harlem,” their relationship is dramatized, portraying a romantic connection that provides an engaging narrative to audiences, although it lacks substantial historical evidence.
The Legacy: Elease’s Daughter
Elease Johnson was a mother to a daughter named Margaret. Unfortunately, owing to addiction, she was unable to care for Margaret properly, leading to the child being raised by Bumpy and Mayme Johnson.
This decision reflects the complexity of circumstances and highlights the cyclical nature of struggle and familial responsibility under such challenging conditions.
Margaret reportedly grew close to Elease’s grandfather, Bumpy, often assisting him in calculations related to his finances, showcasing a nurturing bond despite the hardships faced by the family.
Conclusion
The tale of Elease Johnson presents a layered narrative woven into the fabric of Harlem’s history. As the daughter of a notorious crime boss, she navigated identity amidst the shadows of her father’s legacy, facing struggles that ultimately defined life.
The stories of Bumpy, Mayme, Elease, and their family continue to fascinate and engage the public, demonstrating that the effects of one’s legacy can resonate far beyond an individual’s lifetime.
Welcome to the world of Chef Gary! Meet Chef Gary, a culinary maestro whose journey from Indonesia to the United States has been nothing short of extraordinary. Immigrating in the early 2000s, Chef Gary began his culinary career as a Sushi Chef at renowned establishments such as Japonais Restaurant in Chicago, followed by stints at Benihana and Ginza in Indiana.
With a passion for perfection and a dedication to his craft, Chef Gary’s career blossomed as he made his mark in the Sunshine State, serving as the Head Sushi Chef at Modern Asian restaurants in Palm Beach. However, his two-year sojourn in New Delhi, India, shaped his culinary prowess, propelling him to the prestigious role of Executive Chef at Nehru Place – Benihana.