MAY JOHNSTON -

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

MAY JOHNSTON 1915 - 2009 Dorothy May Johnston died peacefully on December 27, 2009 in Calgary while visiting family for Christmas. May was born on October 27, 1915 in the Pretty Valley District, at the home of her parents, George and Lily (Cowan) McCullough. May attended Normal School, enrolled in the Teacher's training program. She began her teaching career in Reaburn, MB where she met her husband, Robert Bruce Johnston. Bruce and May were married after the end of the Second World War, on March 14, 1946. They moved to Culross, MB where Bruce operated the N. M. Paterson Sons grain elevator. In 1960, Bruce died suddenly at which time May moved back to the Swan River Valley with her three children, Lynda, Janet, and Kelvin. In the fall of 1962, May went back to teaching. She taught First Grade at Taylor School until her retirement in 1981. During her career she also attended summer and evening classes at university, and completed her Bachelor of Education. May took great pride in her work, and in her students, following many of their educational endeavors and careers throughout her entire life. She instilled the value and importance of a strong education in her family, her students, and all of the young people she knew. Just two days before she passed, May was speaking with her family about the importance of education. May's manner was quiet, but she was always involved in what was going on around her, and she loved to contribute. May loved the arts. During her retirement, she worked as a volunteer with the Festival and Arts Council, working at the festivals from the time of her retirement until last year. She was also a member of St. Andrew's United Church, where she volunteered in a variety of ways. May's faith was evident through her actions, and she instilled her Christian values in her family. May loved her family. She will be missed by her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Predeceased by her husband Bruce, she is survived by her three children Lynda Toffelmire (Gary), Janet Wilson (Glen), and Kel Johnston (Barb); her six grandchildren Terry, Colin, Dallas, Ben, Wylie and Andie; and her four great-grandchildren Jackson, Zach, Liam, and Cameron. She is also survived by her sister Jean Mayer (Milton) and her sister-in-law, Jean Sayer, and was predeceased by parents George and Lilly McCullough, and sisters Joy Thom (Dave) and Doris Soura (Buster). Following cremation a memorial service was held from the St. Andrews United Church in Swan River, MB on Monday, January 4, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. with Reverend Murray Wenstob and Reverend Shirl Christian officiating. Prior to the service a private family interment took place in the family plot at the Birchwood Cemetery in Swan River, MB. Should friends so desire, memorial donations in May's memory may be made to the Community Foundation of Swan Valley or to a charity of your choice. Arrangements were entrusted to Jim Webster of Swan Valley Funeral Services Ltd., 363 Kelsey Trail (Hwy. 10 North), Swan River, MB. 204-734-5775.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 14, 2010