James Allen Johnston

James Allen Johnston, 88, of Charlotte was born on August 20,1936, at his family's home, two months early. His mother used the oven as an incubator and began feeding him sweetened condensed milk when he was very young. James thrived on this and had more than doubled his weight by his first birthday. His family owned a dairy farm and as soon as he was old enough, he joined his brother in milking the cows twice a day and checking their many rabbit boxes. He loved telling stories about his adventures growing up.

He was in the first sophomore class at West Meck High School 1954. He also drove a school bus in his 'free' time and began dating the love of his life, Joanne. They were happily married for 67 years.

James was a member of the Moore’s Chapel Volunteer FD then the West Meck Volunteer FD for over 60 years, where he served as a Fire Fighter, Chief, and EMT. He received many awards for his service through the years, most recently, The Order of the Long Leaf Pine, The Order of the Guardian. He touched many people in the community as he would often be the first one to arrive on a call for help. He was a founding member of Garden Memorial Presbyterian Church where he served as a Sunday School teacher, Youth Leader, Lay Preacher, Choir Director and Elder. For many years he and his wife welcomed the young people into their home every Sunday night for fellowship and a safe place to hang out.

His career was with UNOCAL 76 Corporation where he started out as a truck driver moving to Dispatcher and then Operations manager. He retired with over 31 years of service. Not one to actually retire, he then worked for Atlantic Landscaping, thus feeding his love of the outdoors and gardening.

James always had a large garden and shared the fruits of his labor with his family, friends and neighbors.

He, along with his brother, enjoyed many years as members of the Power of the Past Antique Tractor Club. One of his favorite ways to serve there was pulling the float for the Holy Angels residents in the Belmont Christmas Parade.

He loved his family and was always willing to help them any way he could. In his retirement he enjoyed spending time with his great-grandchildren and teaching them how to garden.

James served his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ every day of his life.

Survivors include his children, James Daniel Johnston (Donna), Sandra J. Kelly (Eric) and Samuel Jay Johnston (Wendy); grandchildren, Joshua (Rachel), Joseph (Dondra), James Adam (Kristi), Cameron, Maddie, Sadie Johnston, Anna Deaton (Justin) and Jimmy Kelly (Kiara); great-grandchildren, Taylor, Uriah, Kate, Avery, Linley, James Johnston, Abigail, Ben Deaton, Grayson James and Beckham Kelly.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Joanne Henry Johnston; parents, Mack Jay and Mary Springs Johnston; sisters, infant sister, Dorothy Ann, Mildred Johnston and Frances Auten and his brother, Grady Johnston.

Friends are cordially invited to a visitation with the family starting at 10:00 AM. On Saturday, October 12, 2024, at Garden Memorial Evangelical Presbyterian Church, 2324 Sam Wilson Road, Charlotte, NC 28214. A Celebration of James’ Life will begin at 11:30 AM following the visitation. Memorials may be given to Garden Memorial Evangelical Presbyterian Church.