Jeanne Johnston

Jeanne (Parker) Johnston, 80, a lifelong resident of Marblehead, passed away peacefully at Salem Hospital surrounded by her family on February 8, 2011. She was the wife of David C. Johnston with whom she shared 52 years of marriage. Born in Marblehead, she was the daughter of the late George P. and M. Antoinette (Voyer) Parker and stepdaughter of the late Ruth (Russell) Parker.

She was a graduate of Marblehead High School and Burdett School of Business. Jeanne worked as a secretary for Dr. Thomas Barrett and later Dr. Robert Fallon. She also worked as a phlebotomist at the Mary Alley Hospital and an aide at the Coffin School in Marblehead.

Jeanne was an accomplished seamstress and crafter, and was also known for making the best “Joe Froggers” in town. She summered at Lake Forest Resort in East Wakefield, NH where she enjoyed gathering with friends and family competing in shuffleboard tournaments. She was also an avid Red Sox and Patriots fan. Jeanne loved children and dogs, but her grandchildren were her greatest joy. Throughout her life, she would light up a room with her lively spirit and never lost her sense of humor.

In addition to her husband, Jeanne is survived by two sons, Jeffrey Johnston and his wife Lisa of Marblehead, and Gregory Johnston and his wife Joyce of Beverly; four grandchildren, Erica, Emily, Jonathan, and Julianna Johnston; a cousin, Louise Parker; and many nieces and nephews. She also leaves her dear friend, Pru Garniss. She was the sister of the late Robert and George Parker.

A Memorial Service will be held at the Eustis and Cornell Funeral Home, 142 Elm Street, Marblehead on Friday, February 18 at 10AM. Relatives and friends respectfully invited. Visitation will begin at 9AM. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jeanne’s memory to the Wayne Martin Scholarship Fund, P.O. Box 264, Marblehead, MA 01945 or The Alzheimer’s Association, 311 Arsenal Street, Watertown, MA 02472.