Terry Michael Johnston

Terry Johnston, a lifelong explorer of the world’s wonders, passed away at the age of 68. He approached life with boundless curiosity, finding beauty and meaning in science, photography, music, and computers—and in the creative ways those passions intertwined.

As a public school teacher, Terry shared his enthusiasm with generations of students, lighting sparks of wonder in young minds through lessons that blended discovery, creativity, and technology.

Later, he brought the same thoughtful spirit to his many years in information technology at Southern Methodist University, where his expertise and quiet generosity left a lasting mark on colleagues and the broader community.

Terry is survived by Mary Jo, the wife he adored, his beloved pup Waffles, and by the countless people whose lives he touched through his teaching, his work, his friendships, and his infectious love of learning. His curiosity, kindness, and ability to see connections others might miss will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.

In keeping with Terry’s wishes, there will be no formal service. He asked simply that those who knew him carry forward his passions in their own way, continuing the legacy of curiosity and care he lived by. Donations in his honor may be made to any no-kill animal shelter.