Obituary
Richard Johnston, age 71, passed away on January 26, 2018 surrounded by family and close friends. He served in the United States Air Force from 1965 to 1969 coming home from Okinawa to marry his teenage sweetheart, Ginny. They celebrated their 49th wedding anniversary in August 2017. Rich and Ginny moved to the Villages from Philadelphia in 2004 following his retirement from the Philadelphia Fire Department after 26 years as firefighter, lieutenant, paramedic and Assistant Fire Marshall. Rich proudly followed in his father’s footsteps as firefighter and his nephew, Bernie, is carrying on this tradition. He was dedicated to helping others and received many recognition awards for saving lives and also teaching fire prevention in the Philadelphia Schools.
Rich was the “last man standing” of the Johnston brothers – Harry, Bernie, Tommy and Jimmy and was also predeceased by his parents, Harry and Cecelia, his nephew, Tommy and mother-in-law Dottie. He leaves behind his loving wife, Ginny and many nieces and nephews. Rich’s dream was to live in the Villages where he enjoyed golfing, singing karaoke, and special friendships. He was an avid follower of the Philadelphia sports teams.
A celebration of life will be held with family and friends. Interment will be held at Florida National Cemetery, Bushnell, Florida at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.
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