Robert Lee "Johnny" Johnston

Robert Lee "Johnny" Johnston of Farmington passed away at his residence on Friday, June 11, 2010, at the age of 78 years, 9 months, and 9 days. He was born on September 2, 1931, at Butler, PA, son of the late John R. and Anna F. (Fields) Johnston. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by a brother, John, a daughter, Sherry and a granddaughter, Karah, all in infancy. He was also preceded in death by his mother and father-in-law, Esther and Emmett Smith. Johnny was a United States Air Force Master Sgt. retiring after 23 years of service where his favorite job was Loadmaster of the C130 Hercules cargo plane although he also was a crew member of the C47, C141, C5 and other military aircraft during his Air Force career. Prior to his military retirement, Johnny's last assignment was as a Loadmaster Instructor at Travis Air Force Base in California. His military career took him to many countries and all but two of the 50 United States. He later retired after 23 years from the Missouri State Mental Health Center in Farmington. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge # 234 of Libertyville, a 32nd degree Mason, a member of the VFW in Farmington and the Air Force Sergeant's Association. Johnny was a faithful member of the First Baptist Church of Farmington. He will be sorely missed by his many friends and acquaintances. Survivors include his wife of almost 55 years, Rose Marie (Smith) Johnston; two sons, Mike Johnston and his wife, Brenda of Farmington; David Johnston and his wife, Pam of Fredericktown and one daughter, Debbie Johnston of Farmington. Also surviving are six grandchildren, Kyle, Kristin and Jared, all of Farmington, and Kelsey, Kolt and Konnor, all of Fredericktown; two step grandaughters, Amy and Jamie; five step great-grandchildren; one sister, Yvonne and one brother, Ronnie; a special sister and brother-in-law, Katherine and Floyd Rogers of Farmington and a host of special nieces, nephews, good friends and extended family. Visitation will be held on Sunday, June 13 at the Cozean Memorial Chapel from 5 - 8 p.m. Visitation will resume beginning at 7 a.m. Monday until the beginning of the Funeral Service at 10 a.m. with Pastor Rocky Good officiating. Interment with military honors will follow in Woodlawn Cemetery in Leadington. Memorials may be made in Mr. Johnston's name to the First Baptist Church of Farmington. View the online obituary and share your condolences at cozean.biz.