James Johnston

With heavy hearts, we celebrate the life of loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend, James P. Johnston, who passed away suddenly at home on January 28, 2025, at the age of 83. James was born on May 2, 1941, in Akron, Ohio, to Willard and Mildred (Hyatt) Johnston. A proud graduate of North High School in 1959, he dedicated over 45 years of his life to Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company, where he excelled as a warehouse manager.

James was a man who truly cherished family. He enjoyed precious moments spent with his wife, Eileen, of 61 wonderful years, and his children, Cindy (Steve) Hanenkrath, Shelly (Greg) Kubicki, James (Paula) Johnston, and Michael (Kristina) Johnston. He was also a devoted brother to his sisters, Sandra Huber and Barbara Berstch. Preceding him in death were his parents and his sister Edna Schorr. James took immense joy in being a grandfather to his 13 beloved grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren, all of whom filled his life with happiness and pride.

A lifelong resident of Toledo, James was an active member of St. Catherine of Siena Church for over 60 years, where he led by example, coaching CYO basketball and volunteering as an usher during services and at the annual fish fry. His hobbies, including woodworking, deer hunting, and golf, were expressions of his vibrant spirit and love for the outdoors.

James's Life Celebration will take place on Sunday, February 2, 2025, from 3 PM until 7 PM at Urbanski Funeral Home a Life Celebration Home, 5055 Secor Rd., Toledo, Ohio. The visitation will continue Monday from 9 am until 10 am. in the funeral home. The Funeral Mass will be Monday at 10:30 a.m. in St. Catherine of Siena Church, located at 4555 North Haven Avenue, Toledo, Ohio. Entombment will follow at Resurrection Catholic Cemetery, Toledo. 

The family prefers memorial contributions be made in Jim's memory to St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church.