of Little Rock, AR
September 5, 1928 - April 17, 2016
William (Bill) A. Johnston, age 87, of Little Rock passed away Sunday, April 17, 2016. Bill was born September 5, 1928 in Birmingham, Alabama. He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Grace Kirkpatrick Johnston, son Anthony (Tony) Johnston (wife) Araceli. Granddaughters: Brittany Grace and Stacey. Nieces: Dana Kellens of Nashville, Tennessee, Denise Collins of Florida. Bill was preceded in death by his mother Alma Miller Johnston, father William Johnston, and sister Judith Davis.
He was founder of Johnston Plumbing and worked many years with his son who thought of him as the best father and his best friend. Many of his customers are like family.
Bill attended University of Alabama and served in the US Navy Air Corps. He started crime watch for his neighborhood, was active in church and Christian activities and attended Christ Church in Alexander.
In earlier years Bill was noted for the smile on his face and his witty sayings. Bill loved to work in the yard in winter or summer. He loved animals, especially the family cat who followed him around as he worked in the yard. He was a friend to many, a helper in time of need, faithful husband, father and grandfather. The apple of his eye were his grandbabies. Bill always thanked God for our close Christian family. He spent many hours late at night reading his Bible and daily prayer.
For the loving care he was given, the family wants to thank Arkansas Hospice and the caregivers at Highlands Nursing Home, where he was called PawPaw.
The family will receive friends Friday, April 22, 2016 from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m., at Roller-Chenal Funeral Home (501)224-8300.
The funeral service will be at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, April 23, 2016 at Roller-Chenal Funeral Home Chapel (501)224-8300. Entombment will follow at Pinecrest Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Arkansas Hospice, the Humane Society, or Christ Church would be appreciated.
Aunt Grace and family,
No words can describe how very sorry I am for the loss you are feeling. Just find peace in knowing that Uncle Bill has only relocated to his permanent, eternal home where you and his loved ones will be with him again someday. Hang on to the love you have for him and the memories you had with him.
Because He lives, you can face tomorrow. Praying God comforts you as only He knows how. Love you much!
I remember one Sunday about 40 years ago...I was really depressed about something and was just standing around the front of the church when somebody sneaked up behind me and picked me up! It was Bill. It immediately lifted my spirit. I will never forget that!
Grace, only the Lord can hold you close enough to get you through this. You had the best! So did Bill!
P.S. There is one possesion you have that I dearly covet, and would like for you to leave it with me: That would be your cheerful disposition.
Bill,
I am so glad I am privileged to know you. I know that now you are in the enviable position of being in heaven with our Savior!
Your cheerful disposition was always a welcome sight! You will be missed. Now Heaven is richer and Earth is poorer! Looking forward to seeing you there.
Grace, may our heavenly Father wrap His loveing arms around, hold you tight and truly make you feel His presences and love. We are so sad. You were blessed to have so many wonderful years with a kind and oving husband--a true man of God. We KNOW Bill is in a better place than we, but our hearts are breaking for your loss. You are in our prayers. We love you.
Tony--Our prayers and hugs to you in the loss of your very special dad. Tom and Jane
You will be missed dear friend but we know you are rejoicing. We pray for the grace of our Lord to surround your dear family.
Grace,
Bill Johnson was a great man of God. We loved him. He is still a great man of God, he has just been given a new address ... We will see him again soon . 😘ðŸ™ðŸ’žâœ love you Steve & Dee