Gary Owen Johnston

Gary Owen Johnston, age 61, died peacefully in his mother’s beautiful Cape Cod home on Thursday, November 27, 2025, surrounded by comfort and warmth. Born in Mount Kisco, New York, October 27, 1964, Gary went on to live out his childhood years in Katonah, where he and his three brothers gave their parents a run for their money. Even managing to secure themselves the nickname “The Katonah Boys”. Gary attended John Jay High School and made many friends during his time there. Several of these friendships became life-long. Even after he graduated and received his diploma in 1982.

Shortly after his graduation Gary and his family relocated to Dennis Port, Massachusetts. Unbeknownst to him, this move would change Gary’s life forever. For it was there that he would meet the love of his life, Debra, who could not help but be swept away by Gary’s kind heart, contagious laughter, unique fashion sense, and incredible humor. His selflessness and supportive nature could not be ignored, as he would drop everything to help someone in need without a second thought. The two married on June 10, 2017, at a Steampunk themed wedding joined by their family and friends.

Debra and Gary spent most of their free time absorbed in developing their forever home which, thanks to Gary’s extraordinary carpentry skills, was a time they both valued. Gary was not only passionate about carpentry and making his wife’s dream home a reality, however. He was skilled in mechanical work and enjoyed wrenching on motorcycles along with classic American muscle cars, which he loved to discuss with his nephew. You could also find him in the kitchen whipping up a pizza from scratch, or going out of his way to crack a joke that would lift everyone’s spirits. He would often hand out nicknames to people, which ranged from heartfelt to hilarious, but every nickname stuck like glue. A Gary-given nickname was cherished. Now more so than ever.

Though Gary and his beloved wife moved away from family, social media granted him the ability to keep everyone entertained. Despite the distance, every post brought his family and friends together in some way, as they all laughed, joked, and teased each other in the comments. Being the life of the party came easily to Gary whether he was physically present or not. In fact, he left us all with a message toward the end of his time. Chuckling and with a mischievous grin on his face he said, “always watch out for the ashholes!” If you know, you know!

Gary Johnston was a beloved son, brother, husband, step-father, uncle, cousin, and friend. His legacy lives on through his beautiful and loving mother Mary Johnston, his brothers Edward Johnston, Kevin Johnston and his wife Tia Johnston, Sean Johnston and his partner Elena Monaco, his niece Katie Johnston, his nephew Christopher Johnston and his wife Kate Johnston, and his step-daughter, Katelyn Nickerson. Gary was welcomed into the afterlife by his wife, Debra Johnston, and his father, Martin Johnston, who both predeceased him. Memorial arrangements are under the guidance of Doane Beal & Ames. Private services are being held for immediate family, and a celebration of life will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the American Heart Association at 300 5th Ave., Suite 6, Waltham, MA 02451. The Johnston family thanks you for your support during this difficult time. Gary lives on in our hearts.