Kathy Johnston, 71, of Valley City, passed away peacefully on May 11, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on January 29, 1955, in Berea to John and Mitzi Elek, Kathy grew up in Columbia Station and graduated from Columbia High School in 1973. In her youth, Kathy was an active member of the Golden Horseshoes 4-H Club alongside her beloved horse, Sparky. She also enjoyed jazz, tap, and ballet dancing.

On October 14, 1978, Kathy married the love of her life, Bill Johnston. Together they shared 48 wonderful years of marriage filled with love, laughter, and memorable trips to Mexico.

Kathy leaves behind her devoted husband, Bill; her children, Tracie (Jay Burns), Jason (Denea), and Andrew (Lydia); and her cherished grandchildren, Addison and Carleigh Burns, Destiny and Gianna Sanfilippo, and Brynlee and Jack Johnston. She is also survived by her dear father, John Elek and loving siblings, Barbara, John (Becky) and Steven, as well as many other extended family members. 

Kathy loved reading, gardening, and most of all, caring for her family. She always made sure everyone around her was loved and taken care of, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Visitation will be held from 4-8 pm, Wednesday, May 20, 2026, at Waite Funeral Home, 3300 Center Rd., Brunswick. A Memorial Sevice will be held at 11 am, Thursday, May 21, 2026 at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105.