Peggy Elizabeth Johnston

Peggy Elizabeth Payne Johnston was born on February 19, 1927, in Baird, Texas, the youngest of three children to Bryan and Elise Payne. When Peggy was young, the family moved to Tyler, Texas, where Bryan established himself in the oil business. Peggy grew up in Tyler and spent summers as a young girl in the northwest at Camp Four Winds and in Texas at Camp Waldemar, and as a fishing instructor at Camp Mystic. Known for her adventurous spirit and infectious smile, she made friends wherever she went.

After graduating from Tyler High School, Peggy attended The University of Texas where she met the love of her life, Bruce Johnston. While at UT, she became a lifelong member of Pi Beta Phi and a loyal Longhorn. Peggy and Bruce married in 1948 and moved to Maryland, where she worked as a computer, programing missiles. She also completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Maryland, earning a degree in mathematics.

Peggy and Bruce returned to Austin, where Bruce completed his PhD at University of Texas. Together, they had three children: David, Laura, and Doug. Peggy’s life was filled with the joy of raising active children, community involvement, and social engagements. She attended countless swim meets, dance recitals, baseball games, bike races and futbol matches. She was very active in the PTA, Cub Scouts, Girl Scouts, and the Barton Hills Garden Club. She was a member of several bridge clubs and never missed the weekly games and as we all found out she was a card shark no matter the card game.

Peggy was not only a mother to her own children but also to her nieces, nephews, and neighbors. Her home was always warm, welcoming, and full of love and laughter. A natural hostess, Peggy delighted in entertaining. She frequently hosted holiday gatherings, futbol team parties, and numerous birthday celebrations. Always on the go, Peggy was continually planning projects, trips, and events. She and Bruce shared a love of travel and explored the world together many times with the Texas Exes.

Peggy spent the last 17 years living at the Querencia at Barton Creek making friends, serving on different committees and of course, playing bridge. Peggy is survived by her children: David Johnston, Laura Johnston, and Doug Johnston; daughter-in-law Celia Johnston; four grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by: her husband Bruce, her brothers Bob and Bill Payne, and her daughter-in-law Debbie Johnston.

Visitation services will be held on December 5, 2025, from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm at Weed-Corley-Fish Funeral Homes and Cremation Services, located at 2620 South Congress Avenue, Austin, TX, 78704.

A memorial service will follow on December 5, 2025, from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm at the same location.