Martha Love Johnston, age 94, passed away early on February 12, 2021 in Birmingham, Alabama after a long struggle with Alzheimer’s. She was a native of Birmingham, AL but also lived in Calera, AL for many years.
Her death is preceded by her father, Willard Charner Love, her mother Kate Hutto Love, her first husband Dr. William S. Mitchell, her second husband Garnett F. Johnston, her eldest son William Eason Mitchell, her brother Willard (Sonny) Charner Love, Jr. and her sister Mary L. Patrick. She is survived by her children: Timothy Love Mitchell, Gayle Mitchell Falkner (Terry), and Susan Mitchell Jones; her grandchildren W. Maxwell Love Mitchell (Cassie), Susan Blavin (Freddie), Allison Charniak ( Aaron), Frederick Jones (Missy), Megan Johnson (Matthew), M. Katie L. Falkner, Zachary M. Falkner, and her many great grandchildren: William Walker Johnson, Hudson Johnson, William Thomas Mitchell, Eason Mitchell Blavin, Catherine Blavin, Logan Jones, Connor Jones and Fielding Charniak.
Martha Johnston was a graduate of West End High School and a well-known majorette during her time there. She was an extremely talented seamstress and pianist who had a gift for music that was apparent when as a ten-year-old she was asked to play the organ for her church services. Martha never hesitated to help those in need. A born leader and a firm believer in community, Martha always had an active role in her children’s school functions. She belonged to a garden club and founded the first bridge club in Calera. In becoming a legal secretary, she graduated first in her class at Samford University. She was always seen as a person to go to for help. Her legacy is her strength, humility, authenticity, and her servant’s heart that will forever linger in the minds and hearts of those that knew and loved her. A special thanks to Compassus Hospice and the many compassionate caregivers who cared for her toward the end of her life.
Funeral services will be held on Sunday, February 21, 2pm at Elmwood Chapel, with visitation beginning at 1pm. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions to be made to the Alzheimer’s Association of Alabama.
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