John P. Johnston

Dr. Jon Phillip Johnston Passed away on October 3 2026 at the age of 86. He was born on April 14, 1940, in Fort Wayne, Indiana and grew up wherever his father’s ministry took the family. Jon retired as Anthropology and Sociology Professor at Pepperdine University for 31 years. During Jon’s 30+ years of ANSR (Nazarene Sociologist and researches) leadership. The ANSR grew from an idea to a valuable, contributing, professional organization whose purpose was John's goal. Sharpen the message to move the sword of the gospel forward from generation to generation. Jon also authored six books with topics ranging from anonymous giving, how to build relationships recognizing God’s goodness in life’s hardest moments.

Jon was an ordained elder in the Church of The Nazarene serving in many different ways. John was always ready to share the Good News by wearing the message "God loves you," on his shirts and caps, and carrying small business sized cards, at the ready, with steps to true freedom in Jesus Christ.

Jon was preceded in death by his father, Leo C. Johnston, mother, Ruth Pfluegger Johnston and brother Bud Johnston.

Jon is survived by his wife Cheryl (Cherry) Johnston ,sister-in-law Nelda Johnston and nephew Matthew Johnston. John and Cherry enjoyed a variety of music over the years. Most recently they were inspired by the harmony of the Gaither Vocal Band. Example; "Joy Comes in the Morning".

John and Cherry were big Los Angeles Dodger fans and often had friends join them in the outfield seats to collect homerun baseballs, of which John had many.