It is with an aching heart that I share the passing of my dear Dad, Jim (Big Jim) Johnston. Dad left us peacefully on Sunday night, September 7, 2025, after an extraordinary 93 ¾ years filled with family, laughter, and love.
His journey in life took him many places—growing up in Beachburg in the Ottawa Valley, spending his teen years in Sudbury on the rink and in the mines, studying engineering at the University of Waterloo, and building a remarkable career with Litton Systems that took him around the world. But no matter where he went, he was happiest when he and Lu were back home at their beloved Green Point Farm in the County.
Dad arrived in Picton in October 1952, fresh out of the Radio College of Canada as a newly trained Electronics Technician. He had been hired to join what would become one of Canada’s most historic projects in missile defence development: the Avro Arrow. Adept at numbers and physics, he was equally savvy when it came to enjoying life. He joined the local hockey and softball teams, became a regular at the pool hall and the old Royal Hotel, and built friendships and ties to the community that lasted a lifetime.
It was during this time that he met my Mom, a lovely farm gal from Green Point. He was immediately smitten with her. It took some convincing before she agreed to go on a date with him. Dad’s persistent streak came in handy. Eventually, Lu said “yes” and, as they say, the rest is history.
Together, they built a life filled with joy and togetherness. Both loved to host extended family and friends. Green Point became the site of countless celebrations and longstanding traditions—Family Olympics, Thanksgiving feasts, craft shows, kite flies, and more. The only thing that brought Dad greater joy than gatherings was being “Grampy” to Grace, Sarah, and Jack. He was born to play the role, cheering on his grandchildren at swim meets, ringette games, and hockey rinks, even becoming the team’s “Grampy” for a decade of Markham Waxers players.
My Dad leaves behind a legacy of fun, hard work, devotion to family, and deep love of community. We already miss him profoundly. But we’re comforted by the knowledge that his legacy fills the hearts of all who knew him. It is also felt in every corner of Green Point, throughout the County and points beyond, where he was dearly loved by so many.

A Celebration of Life for Dad will be held on Saturday, October 11, 2025 at 12 noon in the Barn at the Green Point Family Farm, 80 Richardson Road, Picton.  If desired, donations to the Loyalist Humane Society or the Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital Foundation would be appreciated.  Arrangements entrusted to Rushnell Funeral Homes – Picton Chapel, 33 Main Street (613-476-2450).  Online condolences and to share memories of Dad, please visit: www.rushnellfuneralhomes.com