Jim Johnston, age 76, of Lone Oak passed away at 2:46 p.m. Monday, October 1, 2019 at St. Thomas Hospital in Nashville, TN. Jim was a long time member of Lone Oak First Baptist Church and a 1961 graduate of Lone Oak High School. Jim attended Murray State University where he was a member of the baseball team. Jim also played Twin States baseball in Paducah. He was a volunteer coach for the American Legion. Jim’s family owned the Johnston’s Restaurant across from Lone Oak High School and later became Jim’s Place. He was involved with the security at Lone Oak First Baptist Church when it first began, driving the parking lot during church services.
Jim was a member of the Lone Oak Volunteer Fire Department for 58 years where he served in many different capacities. He was appointed Fire Chief and held that position for many years, most recently as business manager. His hobbies included gardening, supporting local sports, and spending time with his family. He was a retired carpenter who built many houses and completed many building projects in the Paducah area.
Survivors include his wife of 47 years, Kathy Goldsmith Johnston, two daughters, Laura (David) Conley and Eileen (Geno) Miller both of Lone Oak; five grandchildren, Madelyn Conley, James Conley, Connor Miller, Brady Miller, and Garrett Miller all of Lone Oak; two sister-in-laws, Sue Johnston and Linda Bryant both of Owensboro, KY; several nieces, nephews and cousins.
Preceding in death were his parents, James Edward Johnston & Lois Campbell Johnston; two brothers, Ervin Johnston and Max Johnston.
Services will be held Saturday, October 5, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. at the Lone Oak Chapel of Milner & Orr Funeral Home with Dr. Dan Summerlin officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Kenton Cemetery. Visitation will be held Friday, October 4, 2019 from 5:00-8:00 p.m. at the Lone Oak Chapel of Milner & Orr Funeral home.
Expression of sympathy may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501, St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or to American Heart Association, Kentucky Region, 240 Whittington Parkway, Louisville, KY 40222 or a charity of your choice.
You may light a candle or leave a message of sympathy at www.milnerandorr.com.