James L. Johnston

Born April 12, 1940 in Peoria to LaVerne F. and Katie Lucille (Smith) Johnston, he married his high school sweetheart, Ellen Elizabeth DeLong on June 17, 1962 in Peoria. She survives. Jim and Ellen were inseparable for 61 ½ years.

Also surviving are one son, Gregory (Barbara) Johnston of Peoria; one daughter, Julie (Douglas) Bell of Eureka; four grandsons, Tyler (Desi) Bell of Avon, Indiana, Nikolas Bell of Knoxville, Tennessee, Alan Johnston and Nathan Johnston, both of Peoria and one sister, Ilene (Ralph) Tegg of Chillicothe.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Dennis Johnston and one sister, Beverly Ann Dwyer.

Jim graduated from Bradley University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Industrial Engineering. He spent his entire career at Central Illinois Light Company and worked his way up to and retired as vice-president of gas operations in 1995.

He was an active community member and served several organizations, including Pekin Hospital Trustee, Herget Bank Board of Directors, Dirksen Congressional Center, Pekin Area Chamber of Commerce, United Way of Pekin, Kiwanis Club of Pekin, and the Ivy Club in Peoria. Jim was an active member at First United Methodist Church in Peoria.

Jim was an avid history reader and traveled to many places he read about. He enjoyed boating and put his engineering skills to good use with many household improvements. Jim’s sense of humor was keen, and a good joke and laugh were never far away.

While Jim had a rewarding career and supported the Pekin community, his greatest gift was his unwavering commitment and devotion to his family. Being a role model, providing support, counsel, and doing “all the little things.” One of his endearing legacies is the closeness shared with his four grandsons. He will be deeply missed.

His memorial service will be held at noon Thursday, January 18, 2024 at First United Methodist Church in Peoria. The Rev. Dr. Tim Ozment will officiate. Visitation will be held one hour before the memorial service at the church. Cremation has been accorded and inurnment will be in Springdale Cemetery in Peoria. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to First United Methodist Church, 116 Northeast Perry Avenue, Peoria, IL 61603.

To express condolences online, visit www.preston-hanley.com