Gary Gene Johnston

Gary Gene “Poppy” Johnston

SHINGLEHOUSE, PA---Gary Gene “Poppy” Johnston, 82, of Shinglehouse, passed peacefully on Friday, May 29, 2026, at Sweden Valley Manor in Coudersport, Pennsylvania, where he was surrounded by exceptional care, kindness, and love.

Born August 21, 1943, in Shinglehouse, Pennsylvania, he was the son of Walter Dane Johnston and Virginia (Kemp) Johnston, later Virginia Ogilvie.

Gary grew up with a strong sense of family, hard work, and self‑reliance—values that shaped the man he became. He married the love of his life, Vickie Lee (Clark) Johnston, on October 31, 1964, and together they shared many devoted years. Gary was preceded in death by Vickie, and their reunion is a comfort to those who loved them both.

Gary is survived by his daughter, Renee Sue Sterling of Olean, and his son, Gary Dane (Georgine) Johnston of Pittsburgh. Nothing brought him more joy than being “Poppy” to his grandchildren: Cody Snyder, Dylan Snyder, Martina (Arron Thompson) Johnston, Maggie Mae Johnston, Miranda (Chase Ryan) Johnston, and Merrick Johnston. He also cherished his great‑grandchildren—Calvin McGee, Loren Arron, Lindsay George, Remy Clark, and Flynn Henry—each of whom added a new spark to his life.

He is also survived by his siblings Charlotte (James) Galloway, Bonnie (Ronald) Schwab, and Michael (Terri) Ogilvie. Gary was preceded in death by three siblings: Jacqueline (Thomas) Gigliotti, Connie (Edgar) Armstrong, and Larry (Cindy) Johnston.

Throughout his life, Gary worked many jobs and was known for his remarkable ability to fix just about anything. He spent a significant portion of his working years with Rondor Construction in Portville, New York, where he drove dump trucks, loaders, and dozers, and was skilled at breaking and sorting rock in the quarry. He took pride in doing tough work well and earned the respect of those who worked alongside him.

Outside of work, Gary found peace and joy in the outdoors. He loved hunting, fishing, and spending time in nature—often sharing those moments with family. His happiest days were the simple ones: a funny story, a good steak dinner, and the company of the people he loved most.

Gary will be remembered for his quiet strength, his generous spirit, and the deep love he held for his family. His legacy lives on in the lessons he taught, the kindness he showed, and the memories he leaves behind.

In keeping with the family’s wishes, no formal services will be held.

Those wishing to honor Gary’s memory may make donations to: St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at https://www.stjude.org/give/memorials-and-dedications.html or to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research at https://www.michaeljfox.org

Gary’s family has entrusted his care and cremation arrangements to Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse.

To express condolences, light a candle or share a fond memory of Gary, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home Facebook page.