Robert Earl Johnston, Sr. passed away peacefully in his sleep at the Louisiana War Veterans Home in Jackson, Louisiana, during the early morning hours of Sunday, November 3, 2024. Affectionately known as “Papa Earl”, he was a grower of gardens, a keeper of bees, and a man with a kind heart, generous spirit, and boundless zest for living. His family and church were the mainstays of his life.
He is preceded in death by his wife, Margaret Ann Varnado Johnston, his constant love and the core of his existence for almost 70 years. When she died, the light in his life diminished. He is also preceded in death by his eldest son and namesake, Robert Earl Johnston, Jr.
He is survived by his children and their spouses: Kathryn J. Davis (Dan), Jeanne C. Johnston, James Edward “Jimmy” Johnston (Deyette ”Dee”), and Lynn J. King, (Pike); his grandchildren and their spouses: Michelle Johnston Gonzalez (Michael), Matthew R. “Matt” DeVille (Rosie), Elizabeth Johnston Abbott (Joshua), Elise King Norris (Marshall), and Jill Lindsey King; and his great-grandchildren who brought so much joy to his heart: Payton Marie Abbott, Olivia Rose Abbott, and Evelyn James Gonzalez.
Papa Earl was a long-time member of the Denham Springs Church of Christ and helped nurture and sustain the church, serving as an elder of the church for more than 50 years. His contributions as a song leader, Sunday school teacher, mentor, and enthusiastic leader of youth activities will be long remembered by many generations, young and old. He also served on the board of directors for CYE, Christian Youth Encampment, in DeRidder, Louisiana. Papa Earl was generous with his time and talent to any and all, but he especially enjoyed working with young people. He was a scoutmaster with the Boy Scouts of America for many years, starting troops in Amite, Ponchatoula, and Denham Springs, and helped shape the character of many young boys and men. Earl was a proud veteran of World War II, serving with demolition and heavy artillery units during the Allied occupation of Italy. He always downplayed his military service, but he stands tall as a member of the “Greatest Generation”. The family would like to express appreciation to Dad’s personal physician, Dr. E. David Sledge, caregiver, Chuck Ellis, Hospice of Baton Rouge, and the entire staff of the Louisiana War Veterans Home, especially the kind and caring people who work on Wing 5 who made Dad’s final days as comfortable as humanly possible. These people surely do God’s work.
Visitation will be held at Seale Funeral Home, Denham Springs, Thursday, November 7th from 6:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. Visitation will resume on Friday, November 8th from 10:00 a.m. until services begin at 11:00 a.m.
2 comments
James E. Minton
November 6, 2024 at 4:37 pm
It was my pleasure to work with, and learn from, Mr. Johnston in the Boy Scout program back in the 1960s and early ‘70s. He was a fine man who served his country and his community.
James Anderson
November 5, 2024 at 6:46 pm
The words stated in Brother Earls obituary does an excellent job in summarizing his life. My family will always have a special place in our hearts for both Earl and Margaret. They were both true servants of our Master, Jesus Christ as they allowed His light to shine in their own lives, as was evident in their daily living.
Although, we will not be able to be with you in person as you honor Earl, please know that our hearts mourn with you in his passing, yet we rejoice with you in knowing that he gaines his heavenly reward. The Apostle Paul said it best nearing the end of his life…”II Tim 4:7&8
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.
Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing.”
We are praying that you all are comforted, knowing that Bro. Earl now rests in the arms of Jesus.
Love,
James, Patti, Adriane, Todd & Averi