Arthur R. Johnston

Arthur R. Johnston, a man whose quiet strength and unwavering dedication left an indelible mark on all who knew him, passed away peacefully on January 22, 2026, in St. Peters, Missouri. Born on May 21, 1926, in Rosemont, Ohio, Arthur's life journey was one defined by commitment—to his country, his family, and his passions.

Arthur’s early years in Rosemont shaped a grounded and easygoing spirit. He attended Canfield High School in Canfield, Ohio, before pursuing an engineering degree at Ohio State University, laying the foundation for a lifelong engagement with technology. His education extended far beyond the classroom as he avidly undertook professional classes on IBM, Burroughs, and DEC computers, becoming self-taught in various computer languages such as PL/1 and Visual Basic.

His career path was both honorable and pioneering. Arthur first served his country with distinction in the United States Army, attaining the rank of Sergeant and serving as an auditor—a testament to his meticulous nature and dedication. Following his military service, he applied his talents to the burgeoning world of computer technology. With the expertise of a true innovator, Arthur worked as a programmer and systems analyst, contributing meaningfully to the evolving digital landscape. After a lengthy and fulfilling career, he retired at the age of 74 but continued to lend his skills lovingly, repairing and maintaining computers for family and friends with the same care and patience that marked every aspect of his life.

Those who knew Arthur often remarked on his calm demeanor and the quiet authority in his carefully chosen words. He was a man who listened more than he spoke, yet when he did speak, his words carried weight and wisdom. Above all, he was devoted to his family—his steadfast loyalty evident in his 75-year marriage to his beloved wife, Doris Johnston. Their bond was one of profound love. Arthur and Doris enjoyed traveling together, and he stood by her with unwavering care throughout her final illness.

Arthur took great pride in being a member of MENSA, a reflection of his sharp intellect and love for challenge. Equally, his pride in his children, Raymond and Pam, was a source of immeasurable joy. His hobbies, including woodworking and fixing things around the house, spoke to a hands-on nature and a mind eager to create and improvise.

He is survived by Doris Johnston, his cherished wife of 75 years; their son Raymond Johnston and his wife Karen May; their daughter Pamela Johnston and her husband Tommy Daher; and his grandchildren Lethe, Ember, and Austen Johnston who carry forward his legacy. He also leaves behind his brother-in-law Arthur (Theresa) Palecek, who shared in the family’s joys and sorrows. Arthur was preceded in death by his parents, Finley Raymond Johnston and Eva Naomi Johnston, as well as his sister-in-law Carol (Bill) Hunt.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at EdgeWild Restaurant in Chesterfield, Missouri, from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM — coinciding with what would have been his 100th birthday, a fitting tribute to a man who truly lived a century’s worth of love, service, and quiet achievement.

He will be laid to rest in Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery in a private ceremony.

Arthur R. Johnston’s steady presence, gentle spirit, and legacy of devotion will be deeply missed but forever treasured. His life reminds us that true greatness often resides in the unspoken acts of kindness and the steadfast support of those we cherish most.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Arthur's honor to the Alzheimer's Association.

To share a memory of Arthur or leave a special message for his family, please visit the guestbook below.