HOWARD ERNEST JOHNSTON
Howard Ernest Johnston, 88, of Holden Missouri, formerly of Odessa, MO, passed away on Wednesday, August 11, 2021, at his home.
Howard was born on August 3, 1933, to Mr. Luther H. and Mrs. Ora Mae (Cline) Johnston in Lone Jack, MO.
He enlisted in the United States Navy on August 20, 1951, in Kansas City, MO, serving until honorably discharged on August 16, 1955, in San Diego, CA.
Howard served in the Korean War on the USS McDermut. During his time served he earned the National Defense Service Medal, United Nations Medal, Korean Medal, and (1) Star China Service. On March 18, 1961, Howard was united in marriage to Helen Jeanne (Hain) in Miami, OK.
He worked as certified farrier, lineman, carpenter and for Target Manufacturing in Kansas City MO, retiring in 1995. Howard was a member of the Local Carpenters Union #1329 of Kansas City, MO from 1965 to 1985.
In addition to spending time with family and friends, he enjoyed farming, fishing, horses, and exotic animals.
Howard is survived by a son, Calvin Johnston (Ellen) of Lenexa, KS; a daughter, Tammy Bray (Andy) of Odessa, MO; and a daughter, Debra Cutting of WA; five grandchildren, Taylor Hall (Parker), Janelle Koehn (Brett), Ty Johnston (Laci), Tiara Williams (Bobby), and Marie Callaway; eight great-grandchildren, Colten and Trever Johnston, Chase, Hunter and Mya Williams, and Sarah, James and Preston Shelton.
In addition to his parents and wife, Howard was preceded in death by a brother, J.C. Johnston; and a sister, Dora Mae Henderson.
A visitation will be held from 10 to 11 a.m. on Wednesday, August 18, 2021, at Ralph O. Jones Funeral Home, 306 S. 2nd Street, Odessa, MO.
A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m., at the funeral home.
Interment will follow at the Sni-Mills Cemetery at 38308 E. Colbern Rd., Lone Jack, MO 64070.
Memorials are suggested to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital and may be left in care of the funeral home.
Memories of Howard and condolences for his family may be left at www.LedfordFamilyFH.com or on their Facebook page.
