Susan Johnston

Born on March 6, 1949, in Concord, New Hampshire, Susan was the beloved daughter of Frederick and Marcella Kittredge Lord. She grew up in Concord and, following her graduation from high school, earned her bachelor’s degree from Plymouth State College.

A gifted and compassionate educator, she taught kindergarten for several years before dedicating herself to her greatest vocation—raising her family. Later, she continued her own education, earning a master’s degree, plus 60 additional credits, in Education, from SUNY New Paltz. Susan taught high school math, including AP Calculus, in New York State for 30 years.

Susan’s life was marked by creativity, generosity, and a deep appreciation for simple joys. She found happiness in golfing with her friends, puttering in her garden, exercising in her pool, and experimenting with recipes in her kitchen. Most recently, her group of golf girlfriends was especially important to her, and she enjoyed playing, competing, and lunching with them regularly.

A lifelong, talented seamstress, she poured her skill and care into every stitch. She sewed to put herself through college, then to support her family, and later to make doll clothes that she gave as gifts. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she lovingly sewed more than 7,000 masks for friends, family, and her community—a reflection of her boundless compassion and selflessness.

She will be deeply missed by her devoted husband of 57 years, James “Jim” Johnston, whom she married on September 14, 1968; her children, Kendra Song of Ormond Beach and Brian (Lisa) Johnston of Warwick, NY; and her cherished grandchildren, Patrick and Mimi Song of Waltham, MA, and Zachary and Dylan Johnston of Warwick, NY. She is also survived by her siblings, James, Frederick, and Jon Lord, Mary Welch, and Ruth Corum.

In addition to her parents, Susan was predeceased by her beloved son, Craig Johnston.

Family and friends are invited to gather on Saturday, November 1st, for a Celebration of Life, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. with a service at 3 p.m., at Craig-Flagler Palms Funeral Home, 511 Old Kings Road South in Flagler Beach. There will be food, drink, and music. In Susan’s honor, please dress casually and comfortably.

Those wishing to share condolences or memories may do so by visiting www.craigflaglerpalms.com.