James David Johnston, Jr., age 84, of The Woodlands, Texas passed away November 8, 2024. He was born to J.D. and Lucille Johnston in Beaufort, South Carolina on January 12, 1940. Jim enjoyed a fun- filled early childhood in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Due to his father's employment, he attended many schools across the country. Jim ended up in Texas. In May 1963, he graduated from Rice University, Houston, Texas as a Union Carbide Scholar in Mechanical Engineering. Hired by NASA, he was one of the first engineers to develop the Acoustical Engineering Testing Program for America's journey into space. While doing Rocket Science and building a family, Jim completed his Master's Degree in Mechanical Engineering and his PhD. course studies at University of Houston. After completing the studies, Jim decided raising his family was more important than finishing his dissertation. Jim worked 48- and one-half years as a respected leader in NASA's space industry.
Jim had a passion for his family, his church, and international travel. His favorite destinations were the Holy Land and exploring his family's historical roots in the UK.....especially Scotland.
Jim met and married Jodi Hughes in 1962, and they would have celebrated 62 years of marriage this Christmas season. Jim and Jodi had 5 children together. Their surviving children are David Johnston, Rebecca (Brannon) Mayer, Pamela Johnston, and Joe (Sabrina) Johnston. One son, Richard Johnston is deceased. Jim is survived by 7 grandchildren: Rebecca, Jennifer, Ashlynn, David, Juliet, Jaden, and Skylar. There are 6 great grandchildren. His brother, Michael E. Johnston and sister, Ginger (Phillip) White, all of Nashville, Tennessee, are also missing Jim. Many nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and caregivers are remembering this fine man.
A Celebration of Life Honoring Jim Johnston will take place on December 4, 2024 at 11 AM at Stonebridge Church, 1 Stonebridge Church Drive, The Woodlands, Texas 77382. A reception at the church will follow the Celebration of Life.
Hope's Path, sponsored by Stonebridge Church, is a residential internship that helps aged-out foster youth find their identity and cope with their new lives. If you are wanting to honor Jim's life in a lasting and helpful way, this is a most appreciated choice.
