Jerry David Johnston

Jerry David Johnston went to be with his Lord and Savior on October 22, 2020 in Mineral Wells, Texas. He was born to Fred “Ted” and Winnie Johnston on February 11th, 1940 in Munday, Texas.  He married the light of his life, Janice in December of 1959. Together, they raised a son and two daughters. Jerry graduated from Hardin Simmons University with a B.A and later from Tarleton State University with a M.Ed.  Often referred to as “Mr. J”, he taught, coached, and mentored many in his several years in education, particularly during his many years as High School Principal at Millsap ISD. Jerry was affectionately known as “Poppa” to his granddaughters, great grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

Jerry loved to tell a good story, especially if it involved striper fishing below the PK dam, deer hunting in Ozona, or playing a competitive game of 42 with his buddies. He was a talented bladesmith, enjoyed collecting and rebuilding antique and vintage firearms, could build just about anything you could imagine, and could scoot across the dancefloor with the best of them.

Jerry is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Janice Johnston of Metcalf Gap,TX ; daughters, Kerrie Johnston-Hall of Breckenridge, TX  and Sundee Barnes (Mike) of Weatherford, TX; granddaughters, Jessica Bryan (Mark) of Decatur, TX and Skye Dorr (Colt) of Mineral Wells, TX; great grandchildren, Kadee and Kaylee Bryan of Decatur, TX and Katch, Kelbi, and Kopper Dorr of Mineral Wells, TX; sister, Barbara McGaughey of Stamford, TX; and numerous dearly loved nephews, nieces, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ted and Winnie Johnston; brother, F.A Johnston; brother-in-law, John McGaughey; son, Shane Johnston; and his beloved four legged companion “Underfoot”.

A memorial service will be held Sunday, November 15, 2020, at 2 PM, in Millsap, TX, at Millsap Baptist Church. Bro. Bob Cameron will officiate. Honorary pallbearers are: David McGaughey, Jodie McGaughey, Kevin Sisson, Roger Skinner, Alton Maddux, Tom Pritchard, Robert Moreno, Leo Hennington, Kenny Crim, David Hall, Colt Dorr, Mark Bryan, Mike Barnes, and Shawn Hughes.

Jerry’s family would like to especially thank the staff at Mineral Wells Nursing and Rehab and Palo Pinto General Hospital for caring so well for him during his final moments.