Lillian Johnston
December 8, 1927 – February 8, 2024
A funeral mass to honor her life will be held at St. Monica Catholic Church, 4408 Westnedge Ave. Kalamazoo, MI 49008, beginning at 11:30 a.m., on Thursday, February 15, 2024. The family will receive friends at the church beginning at 10:30 am, one hour prior to the service. Interment will follow at Mt. Ever-Rest Memorial Park South. Memorial contributions may be given to St. Monica Catholic Church or Centrica Rose Arbor Place, c/o the funeral home.
Obituary
Age 96, passed away at Centrica Rose Arbor Place on February 8, 2024, surrounded by loved ones. She was born in Kalamazoo, MI, on December 8, 1927, the daughter of the late Sam and Helena (Korzilius) Willie. Lillian was kind, gentle and loving. Her family and faith were at the center of all that she did, and she leaves behind the legacy of a life well lived. On March 1, 1946, she married the love of her life, Lee Johnston Jr. who preceded her in passing on June 23, 2006. Together they made their home in Kalamazoo on Parker Avenue where they remained for life. Lillian loved children and was blessed with a large family. She worked hard at home providing stability, love and laughter for her family. Her heart and her home were always open. Later in life she began to be blessed with grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren. She was an involved grandmother who was a shining example to the children. She loved family gatherings and was happiest when those she loved were gathered nearby. Lillian was a stellar athlete and loved playing a pick-up game of volleyball or softball. At one time she participated in the Senior Olympics for softball and has a medal recognizing her efforts. She had a strong faith and was a founding member of St. Monica’s Catholic Church. Lillian was the foundation of her family, and she will be missed by all who loved her. She is survived by her children, Mark (Rose) Johnston, Cherie (Ron) Fulton, Mike (Sandie) Johnston, Jeanne (Jerry) DeVisser, Kathy (Larry) Orr, Martha (Dave) Smith, Matt (Carolyn) Johnston, Denise Runge, Monica VandeWerken, Nathan (Becky) Johnston, Vincent Johnston, Mary (George) Wright, Phyllis (Robert) Brewster, Julia Williams, Joan (Don) Haynes; many grandchildren and several great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; extended nieces, nephews and family. She was also preceded in passing by a son, James Johnston; grandson, Richard Johnston; granddaughters, Jaime Johnston and Kasey (Wright) DeBat; great-granddaughter, Kendal Johnston; son-in-law, Joe Runge; brothers, Ray Willie, Al Willie, Richard Willie and Edwin Willie; sisters, Benita Daubenspeck and Doris Willie.
Sharing your sadness at the loss of this kind and loving woman.
I had the privilege of meeting Lillian through my work. I cut her hair several times over the years. She was always a joy. I will miss her but celebrate the fact I got to share a little piece of her life with her. Prayers to the family.
Mom, I can see you scolding dad and James for not waiting for you!
You have been the matriarch of this enormous, beautiful family that I have been blessed with. I have spent 48 years getting to know you and your kind, loving soul. I would like to think that my faith and my relationship with God all these years came from you. You taught me about faith when I didn’t even understand the word. As a child I would say, “but why?” And your answer was always “Faith”. I understand it now. Thank you for our dinners together, for taking me to church and leading me to God. You will always be my favorite grandparent, and my Sunshine ☀️
Patty and family, May the Lord comfort you and your family as Gram has finished her earthly journey. What rejoicing there must have been as Lillian entered her heavenly home. Well done good and faithful servant! Mike and Mary
Martha and family, I am sorry to hear about your mother’s passing, she lived a good life and had a wonderful family. Even though we have lost touch along the way, I think of you and family often. Memories are such a blessing so hold tight to them. Wishing you comfort and peace. Diana Happel-Nowakowski
Martha and family, I am sorry to hear about your mother’s passing, she lived a good life and had a wonderful family. Even though we have lost touch along the way, I think of you and family often. Memories are such a blessing so hold tight to them. Wishing you comfort and peace. Diana Happel-Nowakowski
So sorry to hear of your mothers passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. Mike & Jill Dwyer