Nadean Johnson was the fifth of seven children born in East Saint Louis, Illinois, to the union of Odell and Margaret Hurst.

Nadean attended Dunbar Elementary School and furthered her education at Lincoln Senior High. Her favorite class was fashion tailoring.

Her parents Odell and Margaret Hurst, husband Lee Andrew Johnson, Sr., two sons, Lee Andrew Johnson, Jr. and Reginald Johnson, all preceded her in death.

Nadean accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior at an early age. She was a devoted and faithful member of Shiloh A.M.E. Church, a member of the choir, shared in many spiritual events held at the church and a devout helper to others and her community. Nadean helped other churches with community services such as feeding the hungry and clothing the naked until her illness deterred her from attending service.

Soon after graduation, Nadean met Mr. Lee Andrew Johnson Sr. They knew it was love at first sight and they were married April 26, 1949 ; to this union six children were born. She began working at Ms. Elaine as a seamstress using her fashion tailoring skills, showing her love as a fashionista.

She leaves to cherish her memories her children ~ Michael, Erwin, Karen Johnson (Falconer) and Myron (Alisia) Johnson. She leaves thirty grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends.