Jay R. Johnston, 80, of St. Marys, OH died 2:20 p.m. Saturday May 31, 2025 at the JTDM Hospital in St. Marys. He was born June 3, 1944 in Sidney, OH to Richard Clinton and Frances June (Goldsberry) Johnston. On August 15, 1964 in Sidney, OH he married Malvina Rose Swiger, who survives.

Also survived by: daughter Lynn (Don Lachey) Johnston of St. Marys, OH and son Deron (Jennifer) Johnston of Middletown, PA.

Preceded in death by: parents Richard and Frances June Johnston; sister Judy Cartwright.

He was a graduate of Sidney High School (Class of 1962) and attended The Ohio State University. He worked as a commercial accounts representative for W.H. Kiefaber Wholesale Supply Co. and Lear Fire Equipment Co. In addition, he worked as an Emergency Medical Technician for Mercer Co. Community Hospital in Coldwater, OH. Also, Jay served as Director of Transportation for the Enoch Shrine.

Jay's life was dedicated to service for his community. One of the original members of the St. Marys Township Fire Department, he volunteered for 32 years and also served on various fire and emergency response committees. He enjoyed all types of sporting events and served as baseball umpire and football referee for countless high school games. He was an active member of various Masonic bodies, including Mercer Lodge #121 F & AM, Ancient and Accepted Order of the Mystic Shrine, Scottish Rite - Valley of Dayton, Grand Commandery Knights Templar of Ohio and Antioch Kentucky Colonels. He was also a member of VFW Post #9289, American Legion Post #323 and the Sidney High School Alumni Marching Band (bass drum). He enjoyed fishing and the sport of hockey, having served as medical assistant for the Lima Blues.

Above everything else, Jay was devoted to his loving family.

In honor of Mr. Jay Johnston, a Gathering of Family & Friends is scheduled 2 - 4 p.m. on Saturday June 28, 2025 at the Miller Funeral Home 1605 Celina Road (Ohio 703 West) in St. Marys. Masonic Funeral Rites will be observed at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the Shriners' Hospitals for Children. Condolences may be expressed and memories shared with Jay's family via: www.millerfuneralhomes.net or the Miller Funeral Homes Facebook Page.