Birth date: Jan 2, 1930 Death date: Mar 13, 2025
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John T. Johnstone
January 2, 1930 – March 13, 2025
John T. Johnstone, a man of unwavering kindness, intelligence, and a heart full of love, passed away peacefully on March 13, 2025, surrounded by his cherished family. Known for his sharp wit and boundless humor, he lived by the motto, “Anything for a laugh, babe.”
Born and raised in Bayonne, NJ, John’s natural charisma earned him the nickname “Jester” from his high school football teammates. His gift for making people smile stayed with him throughout his life.
In 1953, he married Mary Catherine Boyle, and together they raised five children. A proud U.S. Air Force veteran, John served during the Korean War and was stationed in Paris, where he worked on repairing war aircraft—an experience made even more special because his wife, Mary, was by his side.
After returning home, he balanced family life with hard work and dedication, earning a B.A. from Seton Hall University while working full-time. He set an example of perseverence and commitment, helping guide his children in their academic and professional successes.
He later married Gloriann (DeMartino) Johnstone and welcomed his sixth child. After retiring as a New Jersey state auditor, he moved with his wife and her family to Delaware, where his favorite moments were weekend visits with his children.
John was a devout Catholic, reading the Bible daily and praying the rosary whenever one of his children asked him for prayers. His faith was a guiding light in his life, offering strength, hope, and comfort to those around him.
John was predeceased by his parents, John and Isabelle (Dempsey); his sisters, Jesse, Isabelle, and Grace; his former wife Mary (Boyle) Johnstone; and his son, William Johnstone. He is survived by his devoted wife, Gloriann; his mother in law Jackie, his brother in law James, his children, Anthony (Marie), John (Marina), Bernadette (Sal), Joanne (Joe), and Ian (Aisling); as well as his beloved grandchildren, Aaron (Rachel), Aidan, Patricia, Max, Shannon and Ivy. His legacy continues in his great-grandchildren, Sebastian, Genevieve and Lily.
In his final month, John was surrounded by the love of his children, sharing meaningful moments on his journey home to God.
John’s strength, humor, warmth, wisdom, and boundless love will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Services listed here at Parsell.
