Jeannette Elizabeth Johnston

Jean was born on March 22 in 1935. She was a San Diego native, being born to Captain Walter and Ruby Byron. Her early childhood was characterized by frequent moves as her father, Walter, was a career navy officer. Walter was a self-made man who worked his way up through ranks, from enlisted sailor to retiring as a Captain. During her early years, Jean was able to live on bases as far away as Maryland and Honolulu, Hawaii. San Diego became the family’s home base just before the beginning of World War II, with Jean graduating from Chula Vista High School in 1952. During her time at Chula Vista High School, she was very popular with friends and participated in numerous school activities. Additionally, she was very active in the women’s Masonic auxiliary, Eastern Star.

After a short and unsuccessful first marriage, Jean met Robert Johnston and later married him on May 29, 1957.

Life changed dramatically for Jean, as Bob already had a little boy, and she shortly had two more boys to start their family.

Jean learned, just like all parents, to run a house and raise her family. She filled her house with activities for her children, at times coping by herself as Bob took assignments in Georgia and L.A. to be able to get ahead at his work. There were times, early on, when she took part time jobs to make ends meet, but always, her family came first. Her care and support help propel all three of her children into productive and rewarding careers.

Her favorite time with family came with the frequent trips to Mammoth, California. Both she and Bob loved the mountains, and the annual summer vacations to Mammoth included hiking, swimming and just enjoying the cool pines. Bob and Jean eventually bought a condo in Mammoth so that the family had a permanent place to meet and spend time together.

As her family grew, Jean took special joy in her grandchildren when they came along, and later her great grandchildren.

Jean lost her husband, Bob, in March of 2022. She is survived by her three sons, Greg (Carolyn) , Bob (Kelly), and Russ (Darcie), 7 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren.