Thomas Hiram Johnston's Obituary
Thomas Hiram Johnston, 80, born on April 29, 1937 in Oklahoma City, OK, passed away on Tuesday, September 6, 2017 at Baylor Hospice Hospital in Carrollton, TX.He is survived by his wife, Edalane Burkey Johnston of 60 years, married in Wheatland, OK. Son, Steve Johnston and wife Karen of Plano, daughter, Julece Johnston Barnes and husband Dan Barnes of Allen, son, Mike Johnston and wife Sharon of Dallas. Also survived by grandchildren Chase Johnston and wife Claire of Denver, Co, Daniel Barnes of Dallas, Stephen Johnston of Austin, Melanie Johnston of Dallas, Cathryn Barnes of The Colony, and Matt Johnston of Dallas.Tom worked for 42 years in technology. He started his career with IBM in Oklahoma City as a customer engineer. After several years he established his own computer programing and services company, specializing in Financial and Factoring applications. Tom’s next career step took him to Metro Factors where he managed their Factoring systems.Tom “retired” at the age of 68 and began a new career as a bus driver for the Plano ISD. Once his health began to fail, he took a position as a bus driver assistant with the special needs children where he worked until May 2017. Being a bus driver/assistant for the special needs children was the most fulfilling job to him.Tom, known to his grandchildren as PaPaw, loved watching their sporting events. He attended many, many, many, sporting events which included hockey, football, wrestling, volleyball, basketball, baseball, and softball. And gave the best applause at many dance recitals too!Tom was an avid golfer who spent lots of time at Tennyson golf course while he lived in Dallas and then Pecan Hollow after moving to Allen. But one of Tom’s favorite places to “swing that club” was in Hawaii.When Tom was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer, he fought a very hard battle with great strength.Tom, a beloved husband, Dad, PaPaw and a Christian friend will always be remembered and loved and never forgotten.We all will miss him and the family wants to thank you for all of your outreach and prayers throughout this journey.
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