10/28/11 - NNHS Newsletter - Bill Johnston

William Coleman Johnston
(d. 24 Oct 2011)

Bassett High School Class of @ 1945 / Newport News High School Class of February 1947

   Thank you so much, Dale.  His obituary certainly caught my eye, but I was unaware of his connection.

SMITHFIELD - William Coleman Johnston, 83, passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, Oct. 24, 2011.

Bill was born in Henry County, Va., and in a burst of patriotism during World War II, he quit school and joined the Army. After his honorable discharge, he completed high school and worked of the C&O Railroad. He later graduated from Old Dominion University with a degree in Accounting. He joined the accounting firm of A. Lee Rawlings and later became head of the Smithfield office.

During the 37 years he lived in Smithfield, Bill had been an active member of many organizations and had a positive effect on many lives. Bill was a member of Ivy Hill Cemetery, where he served as treasurer. He was also an active part of the Smithfield Masonic Lodge, where he served as Master two times and District Deputy Grand Master of 31st Masonic District. Bill had served the Smithfield Ruritan Club as president three times and was honored as Outstanding President for the year 2008. Bill also served as a past member of the Smithfield Rotary Club, Smithfield Kiwanis Club, Chamber of Commerce, and the Isle of Wight Red Cross. Bill was honored in 2008 as Citizen of the Year. In his spare time, Bill taught Tai Chi classes and also held fly fishing classes.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, William Z. Johnston and Angie Coleman Johnston; and his sister, Lucille Johnston Blanco.

He is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Margaret Zuidena Johnston; and a host of cousins and friends.

A life celebration service will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, Oct. 28, 2011, at Colonial Funeral Home Chapel, with the Rev. Dr. Donald Rhoton officiating. Burial, with Masonic Rites, will follow at Ivy Hill Cemetery. Visitation will be from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 27, 2011, at the funeral home. A reception celebrating Bill's life will be held at the William C. Johnston Social Hall at the Smithfield Lodge following the graveside service.

Memorial donations may be made to Ivy Hill Cemetery, P.O. Box 245, Smithfield, VA 23431.
Arrangements are in the care of Colonial Funeral Home, Smithfield. View and post condolences on our online guestbook at dailypress.com/guestbooks.

Published in the Daily Press from October 25 to October 26, 2011.
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