Thomas S. Johnston

Thomas S. Johnston, 82, of Union Valley Road, DeRuyter (Town of Taylor), NY, passed away on Saturday, March 10, 2018, at his home, while surrounded by his family.

Born in Islip, NY, on May 18, 1935, Tom was the son of the late John and Helen Smith Johnston.  He retired from Ford Motor Company in Long Island and also owned and operated his own automobile shop and marina.  He spent countless hours of enjoyment rebuilding antique boats and was an outstanding furniture maker.  All-in-all, a very hard-working man who could do almost anything.  He was also a member of the Taylor Historical Society.

He is survived by his wife, Patricia B. (Elwood) Johnston; his children, Tommy Johnston of Long Island, Nicholas (Allison) Johnston of Cayuga, Lisa (John) Shiels of St. James, and Gigi (Carmine) Danielo of Pitcher; his step-children, Ronald “Bert” Bush of DeRuyter, Laura Bush of Toolan, CT, James (Jennifer Pickert) Bush of E. Freetown, Susan (Larry) Manley of Willet, and Sandra K. Bush of Cortland.  He also leaves behind his brothers, George (Janice) Johnston and Peter (Pam) Johnston, all of Florida; a sister, Carol Johnston of KS; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren, including a very special great-granddaughter, Lexi.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his first wife, Florence “Dottie” Johnston, in 2004.

In keeping with Tom’s wishes, there will be no prior calling hours or funeral service.  Expressions of sympathy in memory of Tom may be directed to the Hospice & Palliative Care Services, 11 Kennedy Parkway, Cortland, NY 13045.