Tom Johnston Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

Charles Thomas “Tom” Johnston, age 83, of Marion, IL passed away at 7:47 a.m. on Wednesday, May 9, 2018 at the VA Medical Center of Marion, IL. He was born on Sunday, May 12, 1934 in Herrin, IL the son of Charles Wayne “Boogie” and Maureen (Worthen) Johnston. He attended school in Marion where he was actively involved in sports and was a graduate of Marion High School Class of 1952. Tom answered the call of his nation by enlisting in the United States Army in June of 1953. Following his faithful service overseas in the Korean Conflict, he was honorably discharged, May 14, 1955. After serving in the United States Army he returned home and continued his education at Southern Illinois University and received his Bachelors Degree in Accounting in 1958. After many years as a public accountant, Tom was Comptroller for Dowen Enterprise in Shawneetown, IL for over twenty years and did individual tax returns for his many clients. Tom was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Marion and was a member of the VFW, Elks and Eagles clubs, and the Knights of Pythias all of Marion, living on the “K. P.” Lake for twenty two years. He was a lifetime member of Williamson Post 147 of the American Legion where he served in many capacities as an officer and trustee for over 60 years. He loved sports and for many years coached the American Legion Baseball team. He was a fan of Marion High School sports programs. In his spare time enjoyed playing golf, fishing, and especially enjoyed spending time with his family. The many memories created will now be cherished by those he leaves behind. He is survived by his children, Tom and wife Joni Johnston of Marion, Tina Wall and Jason Boatright of Marion, Joe Johnston and wife, Kimberly Absher-Johnston of Herrin, IL and Tim Johnston and Heather Cartwright of Collierville, TN; seventeen grandchildren, Justin, Julie, Jodi, Johnna, Jayme, Amber, Aaron, Austin, Amilia, Addison, Haleigh, Mackinleigh, Nicholas, Emily, Annie, Sydney and Jacob; sixteen great-grandchildren; three brothers, Tim and Carol Johnston of Shelbyville, IL, “Butch” Johnston, and “J. J.” Johnston both of Marion; aunt, Melba Stiritz of Marion; other extended family, and many friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, infant brother, Joe Warren Johnston, and infant granddaughter, Jacqueline Grace Johnston. Arrangements for Tom Johnston were entrusted to Wilson-McReynolds Funeral Home, 900 N. Court St., Marion. The visitation was on Sunday, May 13, 2018, from 1:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. at the funeral home. During the visitation, a “Reflection” of life DVD Memorial Tribute was presented to the family and friends and featured special people, places, and events of Tom’s life. The funeral service was at 11:00 a.m. Monday, May 14, 2018 at Wilson-McReynolds Funeral Home with Rev. Derek Levins presiding. The prelude and postlude musical selections were recorded piano selections. Special recorded vocal musical selections presented during the service were “Old Rugged Cross” by George Jones, “How Great Thou Art” by Loretta Lynn, “Amazing Grace” by Alan Jackson, and “I Saw the Light” by Hank Williams. Special comments of memory were presented by Tom’s sons, Tom and Joe and his brother, Tim. Interment followed in Rose Hill Cemetery of Marion. Those serving as pallbearers were Lucas Day, Dylan Bodine, Ethan Johnston, Aaron Biggs, Austin Biggs, Nic Swinkunas, Jason Boatright, and Jacob Johnston. Military honors were accorded at the cemetery by members of Heyde-Pillow V.F.W. Post No. 1301 and Williamson Post 147 American Legion Ritual Team of Marion, and members of the United States Army National Guard Funeral Honors Burial Detail. V.F.W members participating were Officer of the Day, Ernie Rinella, Chaplin, Ray Hancock, Commander, Dan Fruge, National Colors, Roger Morris, Post Colors, Art Ambros, Color Guard, John Andrew and Herbert Robinson, and Firing Squad, Gene Broombaugh, Bill Hampsey, Bill Hatfield, Merlin Koester, Ron Phillips, Bob Wallace and Bob Maurizio. Members of the United States National Guard were Specialist, Hunter Levan and Sergeant, Vlad Noland. Presentation of the folded flag to Tina was by Specialist, Hunter Levan. Following the graveside committal service at the cemetery family and friends gathered at the American Legion Post No. 147 for a meal and continued time of fellowship and support. For those who preferred memorial contributions were made to “Marion American Legion/V.F.W. Ritual Team” and mailed in care of Wilson-McReynolds Funeral Home, 900 N. Court Street, Marion, IL 62959. Memorial envelopes were available at the funeral home. For additional information call the funeral home at 618-993-2131.

Tom Johnston

May 12, 1934 - May 9, 2018