THOMAS "TODD" JOHNSTON

Though our hearts are heavy, our gratitude is endless as we share that Thomas “Todd” Johnston went home to find his place in Heaven on November 4, 2025, at 2:47 PM. The light and love surrounding him in his final days were a true reflection of the profound impact he made during his time on earth. He was an angel in human form, with a smile that brought joy to all, eyes that sparkled with warmth and love, and a heart so gentle and kind that everyone who met him felt truly special. He gave without hesitation and loved without condition — wholly, selflessly and deeply. 

Tom was born in Norton, Virginia, to his beloved parents, Georgia and Harry Johnston, and shared his early years and many fond memories and maybe even a bit of mischief with his brothers, Larry, Travis and Artie. He built a remarkable life with his lifelong partner, Leslie Johnston, whom he met at Horace Mann High School in Gary, Indiana filled with devotion, laughter, adventures and deep partnership. 

Tom had a special gift: the ability to see the potential in others and to guide, support, and inspire them to reach it. He dedicated his life to serving as a guidance counselor, touching the lives of countless children. The ripple effect of his kindness, encouragement, and belief in others will continue to shape generations, leaving behind a lasting legacy of love and compassion. 

Tom firmly believed every child deserved the same opportunities he had—and the same opportunities he made sure his daughter, Sarah, had. To her, Tom was the greatest man on earth. There was nothing he wouldn't do to help her chase her dreams. He instilled in her a sense of kindness, generosity, and compassion, and always reminded her, "I love you the whole wide world." 

A passionate advocate for political causes and deeply proud of his family ancestry, Tom also had a love for music and couldn't help but dance when a favorite song played. He cared deeply for animals and was a wonderful "fur-grandpa." He cherished his friendships deeply — each one, no matter its length, was transformative. His loud and unwavering support for his Alma Maters, the Indiana Hoosiers and UCF Knights, was legendary. Above all, Tom will be remembered for his warmth, his humor, and the way he made everyone around him feel seen, heard, and valued. 

Tom is preceded in death by his parents, Harry and Georgia Johnston, his brothers, Artie and Travis Johnston, and his cherished wife, Leslie Johnston. 

He is survived by his loving daughter, Sarah Kathryn Johnston; his brother “bruther”, Larry Johnston (Kathy Johnston); his nephews, Chad Johnston (Peggy Bell) and Joey Johnston (Sheila Johnston); his great-nephews, Chandler Johnston, Dylan Johnston, and Chase Johnston; his great grandniece, Josephine Johnston; his aunt, Martha Pennington; cousins Keddie Salyer, David Salyer (Karen Salyer), Ken Baldwin (Yvonne Baldwin), Kathryn Baldwin McPeak (Greg McPeak), Michael Baldwin (Barabara Baldwin); Susan Pennington, Joe Pennington (Kathi Pennington) and Tim Pennington (Teresa Pennington.)  

A service honoring Tom's life will be held at 2:00 PM on November 16, 2025, at Baldwin Fairchild Funeral Home in E. Altamonte Springs, with visitation beginning at 12:00 PM. Tom will be brought home to Norton, Virginia, for services on November 22nd at Hagy-Fawbush Funeral Home, where he will be laid to rest at Highland Cemetery. Visitation will begin at 11:30am, Funeral Service at 1:30pm and Graveside Service following. 

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests you honor Tom's special legacy by contributing to a scholarship fund established with the Foundation for Orange County Public Schools. This fund will provide an annual scholarship to a child of promise at Jones High School, helping guide their future and support their dreams—just as Tom did for his own daughter. https://www.foundationforocps.org/honoringtomjohnston 

Go rest high on that mountain, Tom. You can rest now, you are home. Shine down on us with your love.