Lois Johnston

With a heavy heart and yet grateful spirit the daughter of Lois M. Johnston announces the passing of her mother on Saturday, April 7, 2018.  She had been residing at The Grove Assisted Living in Peoria, AZ since February of this year.  She also lived at Wooddale Village Retirement community for two years prior.

Lois was born January 24, 1923, the daughter of Ralph and Irene Martin.  She enjoyed her childhood years on Youngstown’s east side, attended Immaculate Conception school and graduated in 1942 from East High School.

After graduation, Lois worked at Livingston’s downtown store but shortly thereafter changed her employment and began working for U.S. Steel in the accounting department.  This was a very happy and rewarding time for Lois.  Her affection for people and enthusiasm for life began to evolve.

In 1947 on a blind date, she met her husband Jack T. Johnston of Poland, Ohio.  On October 9, 1954, Lois and Jack were married at Immaculate Conception Church in Youngstown, Ohio.  In 1955, their only child, a daughter, Nancy was born.  Jack, the ever clever man that he was, schemed to surprise his wife and newborn daughter with their new home in Poland on the day they left the hospital!  From that day forward, Poland became the family’s home and remained so for the next 22 years.  During those years Lois was a very active parishioner of Holy Family Church and also with Jack’s church, Poland United Methodist Church.  For many years she served proudly as the Camp Fire Girls leader for her daughter’s troop and was involved with the local garden club.

In the mid 70’s when Lois’ mother, Irene, was undergoing extensive rehabilitation at Little Forest Medical Center, Lois saw the need for patient interaction and soon became the activity director.  Lois had found her niche.

Shortly after Jack and Lois retired in 1977 to Sun City, AZ, Lois was hired as the Information Supervisor for Boswell Memorial Hospital.  She held this position for 22 years before retiring.  In this capacity, she was afforded the opportunity to help and interact with people.

She was an active member of St. Joachim and St. Anne Catholic Parish in Sun City, AZ for over 40 years.  She served on the finance committee and led the rosary several mornings per week.

Lois made several everlasting friendships throughout her life and cherished them all.

In addition to Jack, her husband, preceding her in death was her brother, Ralph T. (Bud) Martin, her sister, Irene Veauthier and her niece, Barbara Smith, all of Youngstown, Ohio.

Her daughter and son in law, Nancy and Tony Gordon, along with extended family members will receive guests this Friday, April 13 from 4-6 p.m. at the Cunningham Becker Funeral Home, 270 N. Main St., Poland.

A prayer service will be held Saturday at 9:15 a.m. at the funeral home, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. at St. Patrick’s Church in Youngstown with Fr. Edward Noga officiating.  Interment will follow at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Boardman.

Many thanks to all of Lois’ caregivers and friends over the last several months. You’re all angels!  Thanks for everything Mom, and enjoy the rest of your life with Dad….hugs to you both!

Visit www.beckerobits.com to send condolences.