Johnnie was born Johnnie Mae Paynes on December 13, 1944, in Simmesport, Louisiana to Edward Paynes, Sr. and Gertrude Lee. Johnnie was the fifth oldest of eight children. Her siblings Edward Jr., Effie (Becky), Margaret, Velma, Amos, Juanita, and Anita all preceded her in death.
In high school, Johnnie was introduced to Fred Keller by her cousin, Floyd Anderson. Johnnie and Fred dated for several years before Fred entered the Air Force. After completing his service, Fred found his way back to Johnnie and they moved to Los Angeles. They married in 1969. In 1971, they welcomed their first son, Avery Omar. In 1974 their second son, Fred X-avier was born.