James Kay Johnston

Dr. James Kay “Jim” Johnston was born on December 25, 1934 while his parents, Layton and M Grace (nee Arnold) Johnston, were passing through Birmingham, Alabama. After numerous moves, and attending 13 different schools, Jim and his parents settles in Pasadena, Texas where he graduated from high school in 1953. While in school, Jim joined the Naval Reserves. He continued in the Reserves, with a break in service, until retiring in 1993. He was a Sea Bee (UTCS) and was recalled to active duty for Desert Storm, serving in the Philippines and the Persian Gulf Theater of operations.

Jim had the very good fortune to marry Anita L. Wright in January of 1959. They were happily married until his death. They had no children. Anita completed her MA shortly after their marriage and Jim completed a BA in 1964; a MS in 1967 and an Education Doctorate in 1972. Jim’s career included teaching at the public school, college, university and adult levels. He began work as a civilian employee for the Department of the Navy in 1973, involved in both teacher training and curriculum development for civilian employees, enlisted military and officers. He occasionally offered instructor training for Sea Bee Reserve Units in the North West as part of his weekend duty. Jim was awarded a Civilian Meritorious Service Medal upon his retirement in 1995.

After moving to Oak Harbor in 1981 to work in the military training squadrons at NAS Whidbey Island, Jim became active in community affairs, serving on the Tennex and New Leaf boards. In 1989 he was appointed to the Civil Service Commission for the Island County Sheriff’s Department, serving until March 13, 2014. He also served on the Island County Board of Equalization and the Veterans Assistance Review Committee. For about eight years, he was on the board for the Mariners’ Cove homeowner’s association, serving two years as president.

Jim enjoyed many other activities including music (amateur fiddle player); building, remodeling and repair projects; and hosting a tent for Clan Johnston/e at Scottish Highland Games in Western Washington. For several years he was a member of the Council of Officers of Clan Johnson/e in America. He became a Urantia Book reader late in life which changed him from a Unitarian agnostic to a believer in the mission and message of Jesus Christ.

Jim is survived by his loving wife, Anita L. Johnston.

A private memorial service will be held at a later day. Services are entrusted to the care of Burley Funeral Chapel.