About

Our Team

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Southern Ice Cream's professional ice-cream experts.

Michelle Barton - President

Growing up in an ice cream family my passion for the ice cream industry was planted at an early age. My very first job at 15 was working a wholesale depot selling ice cream novelties to ice cream vendors in Seattle, WA. Ice cream was something that my dad, Mike Johnston and I could always talk about, he was my mentor and taught me many valuable lessons that I carry with me today.

When I am not working, my husband, two boys and many animals are spending time on our Texas ranch! I love traveling, yoga, pilates and new experiences!!

Michelle Barton

President

Favorite Ice Cream
Anything with Coconut

Learn More About Robert

Robert Barton - Vice President

I started my career in the property management industry which taught me about customer service and leadership. I worked my way up the ladder over my 15 years in the industry to a regional manager position before joining my wife in the family ice cream business. Since then I have enjoyed grow and manage the business alongside my wife, Michelle.

When I am not at work I love to spend time with my wife and two boys and if there is more time I also love to ranch, hunt, garden and play ice hockey.

Robert Barton

Vice President

Favorite Ice Cream
Loaded' Bar

Learn More About Sharon

Sharon Johnston - Chief Financial Officer

They say ice cream puts smiles on people's faces and I have to agree that working in the ice cream industry has been one of the most rewarding times in my life! When my late husband and I decided to move to another state to sell ice cream; I began a wonderful adventure. My skilled background in executive administration was utilized to help Southern Ice Cream grow into the successful company it is today.

I have spent the last decade working as the chief financial officer for Southern Ice Cream and I have loved every minute of it. I enjoy a relaxed lifestyle and love spending time with my seven grandchildren, visiting friends and family, shopping, traveling and gardening.

Sharon Johnston

Chief Financial Officer

Favorite Ice Cream
Bomb Pop

Learn More About CJ Jones

CJ Jones – General Manager

I have over 25 years of Leadership experience including Sales, Military, Retail and Operations/Supply Chain. Working in these different capacities has given me a unique perspective on how I go about my day and the one thing that is constant across all my previous platforms, is the importance of pouring into the team.

When I’m not at work, I’m either at a baseball game or coaching my son’s team, spending time with those that I love, working out, bowling, fishing or reading something that’s good for the soul.

CJ Jones

General Manager

Favorite Ice Cream
Strawberry Shortcake

Learn More About Anna

Anna Lisa Famania - General Manager

I earned my distribution, food and hospitality knowledge through nearly 20 years of industry experience. My attributes to Southern Ice Cream include strategic marketing to increase product sales, leadership and working with customers to meet their budget and objectives without compromising service. I moved from New York to join Southern Ice Cream in 2015 with hopes to set a new pace of life and best provide for my family.

The southern hospitality I received rejuvenated my outlook and gave me new perspective. My husband, Tony and two children love spending time together on the weekends relaxing from our fast paced weekday schedule. I love to eat healthy, workout and explore new places.

Anna Lisa Famania

Director of Sales

Favorite Ice Cream
Vanilla Cone with Nuts

Learn More About Richard

Richard Hand - Inventory & Purchasing Manager

I started with Southern Ice Cream in 2010 in customer service and have worked my way up to my current position as purchasing and inventory manager. I love the family atmosphere of Southern Ice Cream and enjoy that every day there is something new, so my job never gets boring!

My interests are sports, fantasy football and video games. I live in the country where it's quiet and I have two cats and a dog that keep me company.

Richard Hand

Office & Purchasing Manager

Favorite Ice Cream
Cinnamon Bun

Learn More About Veronica

Veronica Hernandez - Office Manager

I am very delightful to say that "I love my job!" and I enjoy being part of the Southern Ice Cream team! When I first started working with Southern Ice Cream in the summer of 2011, I was going to school to pursue a career in Interior Design but then life took me by surprise and I accomplished a degree in Business.

The years I have been with Southern have truly defined me in the person I have become and look forward to continue to grow within the ice cream industry. Customer Service has always been my priority and I enjoy helping others. When I am not at work I love spending time with my family and my two nieces. In my spare time, I love to put my interior design and flower arrangements into skill and love to shop!

Veronica Hernandez

Special Events Manager

Favorite Ice Cream
Orange Dream Bar

Learn More About Christina

Christina Burnett – HR Manager

I was excited to join Southern Ice Cream in 2018, bringing over 40 years of experience in HR and accounting. Every day, I’m inspired by the incredible people I work alongside, who I proudly consider my workday family. I am enthusiastic about sharing my knowledge to support any project and offering guidance to my colleagues with various challenges. I love fostering a positive, "I CAN" attitude that makes each day go by in the blink of an eye.

Outside of work, I’m driven by curiosity and enjoy engaging with people to hear their unique, often uplifting stories. Life’s experiences shared by others are a gift I truly treasure. When I am not at work, you’ll find me enjoying time with my family, playing with my dogs, reading, traveling, or indulging in a game of cards or board games with friends. These moments of connection and joy are what bring balance to my life.

Christina Burnett

HR Manager