Mary Lou Johnston, age 86, of North Platte passed away November 13, 2012 at her home. She was born August 20, 1926 in Ashford, Alabama to Thomas and Bertie Joiner White. Mary Lou grew up in Georgia. On March 27, 1948 she married James A. Johnston at Fort Benning, Georgia. James was in the Air Force so the family traveled around the country. James retired in 1970 and the family settled in Sutherland. Mary Lou worked at the Sutherland Care Center and helped James at his welding shop. They also raised honey bees. In 1987 the couple moved to a house just north of North Platte, and they ran the Recycling Center in North Platte. Mary Lou enjoyed quilting, was a hard worker, and wanted to make sure her kids were well taken care of.
Survivors include her sons, James Michael “Mike” Johnston and Jerrol Patrick “Pat” (Bobbie) Johnston all of North Platte; grandchildren, Travis (Michelle) Johnston of Columbia, SC and Ryan (Emily) Johnston of North Platte; great-grandchildren, Nolan and Shelby of North Platte and David of SC; and several nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, James; seven brothers and sisters; and two daughters, Cheryl Ann and Barbara Arlene Johnston.
A memorial has been established in her name and online condolences may be shared at www.adamsswanson.com.
Services will be 2:00 p.m. Friday, November 16, 2012 at Adams & Swanson Funeral Home with Bishop Neil Hokenson officiating. Burial will follow at Fort McPherson National Cemetery. Visitation will be 9:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. today at Adams & Swanson Funeral Home which is in charge of arrangements.