Florence "Riccie" Johnson

Florence “Riccie” Johnson died peacefully on Saturday, January 3, 2026 surrounded by family. She was 101 years old. Daughter of Giuseppe and Lillian Riccobono, Riccie grew up in Clifton, NJ. She earned a BA in Art from Georgian Court University and a Masters in Theatre from the Pasadena Playhouse. She began work as a television make-up artist in 1950, a career that spanned seven decades. Riccie made up many of the world’s most notable and newsworthy personalities from presidents and prime ministers, to actors, authors and musicians, including the Beatles for their American debut on the Ed Sullivan Show in 1964.

She was married to James Warren Johnson of Kingston, NY in 1953. Together they raised seven children on the Upper East Side of New York. Riccie pursued her passion as a makeup artist at a time when women were more traditionally homemakers. A devout Catholic, she was a member of the parish of Saint Ignatius Loyola, active as an usher, eucharistic minister, and lector for her entire adult life. 

She enjoyed traveling, writing, and spending time with her family and friends. She is a founding member of Local 798, IATSE and received a lifetime achievement award from NYWIFT (New York Women in Film and Television) in 2019.

She was a loving and generous woman, deeply passionate about her work, devoted to her friends and family, and an inspiration to many. Always ready with a listening ear, she brought warmth and understanding to every conversation. Her impeccable sense of style and vibrant personality made her stand out, and her love for celebrating life was infectious. She will be missed by those who knew her.

Riccie was predeceased by her beloved husband and three grandchildren. She is survived by her seven children, including James Johnson and wife Ellie;  Marla Truini and husband Joseph; Michael Johnson; Meg Drago and husband Thomas; Robert Johnson and wife Miranda; Hillary Ramming; and Victoria Galow and husband, Michael, as well as fourteen grandchildren and ten great grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Catholic Charities.

A Memorial Gathering will be held at Frank E. Campbell - The Funeral Chapel, located at 1076 Madison Ave, New York, New York, 10028. Calling hours on January 8, 2026 are from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm and from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm on the 4th Floor.

A Funeral Mass of Christian Burial will be conducted at St. Ignatius Loyola Church, 980 Park Ave, NY, New York, on January 9, 2026, starting at 10:00 am.

Interment of ashes will follow the mass at Calvary Cemetery, 58 McLean Blvd, Paterson, New Jersey, 07513, on January 9, 2026.