James Blair Johnston

James Johnston, age 92, born in Jasper County, MO. to Frederick Mason Johnston & Ruth Anna Johnston, moved to California in the summer of 1942, & soon enlisted in the U.S. Navy, transporting troops from the USS Libra in the Solomons & Bougainville campaigns. He was proud to be a WWII veteran. After the Navy, James graduated from Modesto High, obtained his pilot license & became a crop-duster. He joined Sears for a time, then became co-owner of a men's clothing store with brother, Orville. Later, James returned to Sears, retiring in 1986 as a top salesman. James served 50 years at North Modesto Church of God, as well as many years with Union Gospel Mission, Gideon's, & Full Gospel Businessmen's Fellowship. He is survived by daughter, Loretta Dennis (Modesto) stepson, Leonard Owen (Oakdale) eight grandchildren, seventeen great-grandchildren, & five great-great grandchildren, brothers & sisters, John Johnston, Orville Johnston, & Myrtle Cheek (Modesto) & sister, Betty Simikins (Springfield, MO). Preceding in death, wife Hazel Johnston, sons, Chris Johnston & Jeff Johnston, brother, Robert Johnston, & sister, Mildred Rush. James is remembered as a man of great kindness & is missed by all. Service: Monday, June 6th, 11:00, at North Modesto Church of God; military rights following at Lakewood Memorial Park, 900 Santa Fe Ave, Hughson, CA. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to: Optimal

Hospice 1101 Sylvan Ave, Suite B-10, Modesto, CA 95350.