Jon Phillip 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 after thirty-one years as professor of Sociology and Anthropology at the Seaver College, Pepperdine University.

During Jon’s 30+ years of ANSR (Association of Nazarene Sociologists and Researchers) leadership, the ANSR grew from an idea to a valuable, contributing, professional organization whose purpose was Jon's goal. Sharpen the message to move the gospel forward from generation to generation.

Jon also authored six books with topics ranging from anonymous giving, "Signed Anonymous," and recognizing God’s goodness in life’s hardest moments, "Stuck in a Sticky World."

Jon was an ordained elder in the Church of The Nazarene serving in many different capacities. Jon 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 Christ Jesus.

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. Jon and Cherry enjoyed a variety of music over the years. Most recently they were inspired by the harmony of the Gaither Vocal Band. Example; "He Touched Me".

Jon and Cherry were avid Los Angeles Dodger fans and often had friends join them in the outfield seats to collect numerous homerun baseballs.

The friends of Jon would like to express much gratitude to Samuel (Sammy) Cadenas Gonzalez from Two Girls Home Care for the excellent care as not only a caregiver, but a friend.