He was the son of the late Joseph Ezra and Elizabeth Andrews Johnston and husband of Patty James Johnston.

He was a member of East Flat Rock United Methodist Church and retired from Marsh-McLennon in 1991.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by two sons, David Brian Johnston of Manchester, N.H., and Joseph Timothy Johnston of Austin, Texas; a daughter, Jennifer Lea Johnston of Rock Hill, S.C.; three brothers, Jere Johnston and Stan Johnston of Palmetto, Ga., and Jimmy Johnston of Newnan, Ga.; two sisters, Katherine Coleman of Newnan, Ga. and Florence Johnson of Palmetto, Ga.; a grandson, Scotland Chase Johnston of Vancouver, Wash.; 25 nieces and nephews and numerous great and great great nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends from 6-7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 12 at East Flat Rock United Methodist Church. Memorial services will follow at 7 p.m. at the church, conducted by Dr. Tim Porter.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to East Flat Rock United Methodist Church to the Joe Johnston Memorial Fund, P.O. Box 477, East Flat Rock, N.C. 28726.

Condolences may be left at www.pettyfuneralhome.com.

Petty Funeral Home and Crematory of Landrum is in charge of arrangements.

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