Obituary of James Richard Johnston

James Richard “Sonny” Johnston, age 75, passed away on Tuesday, December 12, 2023.

Sonny was born on Friday, May 28, 1948, in the Johnstonville Community of Lamar County to the late James Wiley and Maude Snow Johnston. In addition to his parents, he is proceeded in death by his brother, Joe Fleming Johnston.

He grew up in the country, so as an adult he loved spending time and tending to his 22 acres of land. Sonny worked as an engineer for Southern Bell until the company merged into AT&T, where he retired after 40 years. He also proudly served his state and country in the Georgia Army National Guard, retiring as a Chief Warrant Officer 3, just a few days short of 40 years. Sonny was a very dedicated man, and his life was his family, work, and the Georgia National Guard.

Sonny is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Deborah May Johnston; children, John William Johnston and Andrew Drennan Johnston; grandson, Levi Bryce Johnston; siblings and spouses, Anita Caldwell (Bobby), Wylene Collins (Russell), Freddie Johnston (Fiancé Shirley); and several nieces and nephews.

A Funeral Service for Mr. James Richard “Sonny” Johnston will be held on Sunday, December 17, 2023, at 2:30 P.M. at First Baptist Church of Barnesville with Reverend Jason Teal officiating. Friends may visit with the family on Saturday, December 16, 2023, from 5:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. at the funeral home. Interment will follow the service at Greenwood Cemetery.

Those who wish to make donations may do so to Greenwood Cemetery Preservation Association in memory of Sonny.

Those who wish may leave an online condolence on our website, www.williams-westburyfuneralhome.com

Williams-Westbury Funeral Home, 526 College Drive, Barnesville, is proudly serving the Johnston family.