Gladys Esther Johnston

It is with immense sadness we share the death of Gladys Esther Johnston. Gladys was born April 19, 1935 in Jarrow, Alberta to Danish immigrant parents, Ted and Minna Rasmussen. She was predeceased by her husband of 54 years, Bill Johnston, and her beloved older brother Chuck Rasmussen. She is survived by her son Bradley Johnston, who was the light of her life.

Gladys was a woman of deep faith and love. To use her words, “My son Bradley is the greatest gift that God ever gave me.” She dedicated her life to raising Bradley into a beautiful person with a network of people around him who value him. Through activism, community-building, and relentless determination, Gladys ensured that Bradley got to build a life in his own home and in his own community.

Gladys had an incredible skill for drawing friends close with her sharp wit and even sharper humour. She will be missed by many people, but particularly by her friends Craig Keyworth and Sally Croome, who she often described as an honorary adopted son and daughter.

She died on October 24, 2025 in Langley Memorial Hospital with her loving niece Laura by her side, following an incredible fight to get better and return home to Bradley.

A celebration of life will take place at 2pm on November 17, 2025 at the Fort Langley United Church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to honour Gladys with Variety – the Children’s Charity of BC.