Edward Scott Johnston

Edward S. Johnston passed away early August 18, 2023 surrounded by family at his home in Hobe Sound, FL. As the sun colored the sky that morning, a twinkling blue star lingered a little longer than all others. 

Edward was the first son born on Sept 26, 1944 to Edward J. Johnston and Marguerite (Young) Johnston-Jaros of Willimantic CT. One of five children, Edward kept the nuns busy at St. Mary School and later attended Windham Tech specializing in drafting. 

While making grinders and shakes at Jim’s Coffee Spot, Edward caught the eye of a young Deborah Pedro. After a 4 year courtship, they married on August 19, 1967.

Edward soon found employment at General Dynamics – Electric Boat Division, and he and his bride opted for country living first in the small town of Scotland, then bought their first home in Preston, Connecticut. 

His next career move was over to the estimating department at Thames Valley Steel. When the owner closed the doors,  Edward returned to Electric Boat working 7 days a week so he could meet his goal of retiring at age 62.

After the birth of daughters Jennifer and Joleen, Ed moved the family to an even more rural town settling in a 5 sided house in Canterbury. The private setting was perfect for their gardens, orchard, cats, dogs, chickens and small fish pond. 25 good years were spent in that home. 

Edward enjoyed much of what New England had to offer. The changing seasons, hunting, fishing, walks in nature, days by the lake, searching for treasure, cozying up by a campfire, listening to music and spending time with family and friends.  

Hobe Sound became home for Ed and Deb in the retirement years. Warm winters, nearby family, meeting many new friends, fishing and golf filled the days. Retirement  allowed time for Edward to hone his cooking skills, expand his coin collection and venture on a few dream trips including a cruise to Alaska. 

Edward also volunteered and worked with many community organizations over the years such as the CT and FL Lions Clubs, lifetime membership at Willimantic Elks Lodge, and the eastern CT Easter Seals. 

Edward was predeceased by sisters, Patricia Harrison and Sharon Vernon. As well as many cherished family members and close friends. 

Edward is survived by his wife, Deborah (Pedro) Johnston; his daughter Jennifer and her husband Chad and their two children -Elliott and Adele Johnson; and his daughter Joleen and her husband Jeffrey King. He is also survived by his sister, Jan (Johnston) Falluco, his brother Steven Johnston and a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins and long time friends. 

To honor Edward, we are holding a Celebration of Life on May 18th, 2024 (1pm)  at the Victorian Room, located on upper level at the Elks Lodge - 198 Pleasant Str. Willimantic, CT. 

"Never. We never lose our loved ones. They accompany us; they don't disappear from our lives. We are merely in different rooms."  

- Paulo Coelho