SFC (Ret) Charles A. Johnston

November 23, 1943 - December 20, 2015

SFC (Ret) Charles A. Johnston, son of the late James Alva and Clara Theresa (Chambers) Johnston, was born November 23, 1943 in St. Louis, Missouri where he grew up. On June 21, 1969, Charles was united in marriage to Kay Irene Barnes in St. Louis, Missouri. They shared over 47 years of marriage together and were blessed with three sons: James, Thomas and Lance. On May 10, 1970, Charles took the oath and entered the United States Army. He served his country faithfully until his retirement on May 10, 1991. For his faithful service, Charles received several awards and commendations; some of which include: National Defense Service Medal-2, Army Service Ribbon, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Service Medal-3, Air Assault Badge, Combat Infantry Badge, Overseas Service Ribbon-3, Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon-3, Army Good Conduct Medal-7, Army Achievement Medal, Army Commendation Medal-5, Army Commendation Medal “V”, Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry w/Palm (Unit) Expert Qualification Badge M-16 Rifle and Meritorious Service Medal. He had attained the rank of Sergeant First Class. After retiring from the military, Charles worked for 4 years in VoTech and became an excellent cabinet maker. He then worked at the Fort Leonard Wood Commissary for a time and also worked at Missouri Highway Patrol Headquarters in Rolla as a housekeeper and also cooking. He spent some time as an employee at the Fort Leonard Wood Weapons Shop and was very knowledgeable of the weapons. In his spare time, Charles enjoying being a member of the Motorbike Club and would take every opportunity to ride his beautiful blue bike whenever he could. He loved growing roses and trees and putting together jigsaw puzzles. Most importantly, he treasured the times spent with his family and friends. Charles passed away Sunday, December 20, 2015 in the Harry S. Truman Veterans Hospital of Columbia, Missouri having attained the age of 72 years. He will be sadly missed by all those that knew and loved him. Charles leaves to cherish his memory, his wife: Kay Johnston of the home; three sons: James Johnston (Amy) of Kansas City, MO, Thomas Johnston (Amy) of St. James, MO and Lance Johnston of St. Robert, MO; one granddaughter: Luna Johnston; four sisters: Patti Thompson of Springfield, MO, Bella “Micky” DeLarenzo of Afton, MO, Sue Vasill of Piedmont, MO and Charlotte O’Brian of St. Louis, MO; two brothers: Jim Johnston of Jacksonville, AR and Russell Wayne Johnston of Jacksonville, AR; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. In addition to his parents, Charles was preceded in death by three siblings: Tom, Rosili and Don Johnston. Services were held at 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, December 23, 2015 in the Memorial Chapels and Crematory of Waynesville with Bro. Randall Duvall officiating. Charles’ son, Thomas recalled his wonderful memories of his father. Serving as escorts were James Johnston, Thomas Johnston, Lance Johnston, Terry Coff, Jim Burg and A.J. Burial with military honors followed in the Missouri Veterans Cemetery of Waynesville. Military honors were provided by the United States Army of Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri.