Shirley Jane Johnston

Shirley Jane Johnston, 89, of Pennington entered into God’s care, Friday March 3, 2017 at Brandywine Senior Living surrounded by her loving family and close friends. She was born and resided in Buffalo, NY for 43 years before living in Greensboro, NC for a brief three years. Mrs. Johnston then resided in Richmond, VA for 38. years and for the last 5 years in Pennington, NJ.

Predeceased by her parents Cletus and Beatrice (Wahlin) Heary, a son, David Johnston and a daughter, Patricia Steffan, she is survived by her husband of 68 years, Garnet Charles Johnston; a son and daughter-in-law, Gary Johnston and Linda Flower; her brother and sister-in-law, Robert and Mary Pat Heary; 8 grandchildren, 6 great grandchildren and several nephews and cousins. She was a loving wife, mother, and friend who will be missed dearly.

Dr. Shirley Johnston was a brilliant woman, educator, and mathematician. She earned several degrees including a Bachelor of Arts in Education from D’Youville College, a Master of Science in Education from the State University College at Buffalo, an Education Specialist degree from the University of Virginia, and a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Education from the University of Virginia. She was a lifetime educator having taught mathematics in elementary school, high school, community college, and even local prisons. She retired from J. Sergeant Reynolds Community College in Richmond, Virginia in 1992 after 18 years as a Professor of Mathematics and Head of the Mathematics Department. After retirement, Shirley enjoyed reading, playing golf, and vacationing in the Florida Keys. She was a member of Hermitage Country Club in Henrico, VA for over 30 years.

A memorial service will be held on March 9, 2017 at 10:00AM at Blackwell Memorial Home, 21 N. Main St., Pennington, NJ with clergy from St. James Church officiating. Burial of cremains will take place in Cheektowaga, NY. at the Mount Calvary Cemetery. A memorial service will be held on March 11, 2017 at 11:00AM at the cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made payable to J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College Educational Foundation, PO Box 26924, Richmond, VA 23261. Include on the memo line – For scholarships in memory of Dr. Shirley Johnston.