Johnie Ruth Johnston, a long-time resident of Vicksburg, died Friday, May 22, 2020, at Vicksburg Convalescent Center.

Johnie Ruth was born in Louisville on June 12, 1934. On Sept. 4, 1952, she married Robert B. Johnston, Jr. and became a homemaker who selflessly provided for her family for over 60 years. 

Johnie Ruth had a voracious love of flowers. She took great pride in her flower gardens, and was once featured in the hometown newspaper for her flower gardens in her yard. She was also an excellent seamstress who took great pride in her creations.

Johnie Ruth was preceded in death by her parents, James and Lillian Barnes DeWeese; siblings, Nell Ray, J.L. DeWeese, Jerry DeWeese and Lillievon Fox.

She is survived by her husband, Robert B. Johnston Jr.; and her children, Bettye Ralon (Don), Ronnie L. Johnston (Jean) and Sandy Terrell (Allen). She is also survived by her brothers, Jimmy DeWeese and Tommy DeWeese.

Left to cherish memories of their grandmother are Sara Gaul, Abigail Perry, Liz Ralon Rackoff, Kate Ralon, Kaycie Walters and Sara Allen. She is also survived by eight great-grandchildren, Madeleine, Conner, Gracie, Isaac, Sawyer, Abel, Addison, Hunter and great-grandchild, J.J. Allen, who is expected in September.

Graveside services (following social distancing guidelines) were held on Tuesday, May 26, 2020, at Greenlawn Gardens Cemetery in Vicksburg. Pallbearers were Michael Gaul, Conner Gaul, Michael Jones, Allen Terrell, Michael Walters and Charlie Belden. Honorary Pallbearers will be Dr. Russell Barnes and the staff of Vicksburg Convalescent Center.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association of MS, MS Chapter, 196 Charmant Drive, Suite 4, Ridgeland, MS  39157.