Ellen Priscilla Johnston's Obituary
Ellen Priscilla Johnston, who was a brilliant inspiration and loving friend to many lucky enough to meet her, passed away at home after a brief illness in Honolulu, on January 30, 2023 at 82.. She was often recognized from afar by her rockstar-like thick curly blonde hair, but it was her soft blue eyes, charming smile and joyous nature that were unforgettable.
Ellen was born on May 2nd, 1941, in Cudehay, Wisconsin. She was the daughter of the late Willie and Shirley Smith and the first of four siblings. On June 7th 1959, Ellen married her Farrington High School sweetheart and the love of her life, Charles "Chuck" Johnston.
As a nurse, mother, grandmother, best friend, wife, and general manager of Hawaii Fishing News, Ellen’s passion was to creatively and selflessly take care of others. She served on neighborhood boards and committees, and never shied away from an opportunity to serve her neighbors. As general manager of her family business, Hawaii Fishing News, she served tirelessly to support Hawaii’s vibrant community of fishermen and women. An avid reader of books, daily newspapers, and medical newsletters, she also loved to stay well informed so she could continue to be inspired by life, grow and help others do the same.
But perhaps her greatest gift was the universally upbeat, positive, and glowing spirit she brought to every interaction with anyone she encountered. It didn’t matter if you were an old friend, or someone she had just met, she always left you feeling a little better than you did before she walked into the room. Her lesson by example, that we should always be a blessing to everyone we meet, is a gift that she will keep on giving through those she has inspired.
Ellen is survived by her husband, Chuck Johnston, her children: Carrie and Matt Johnston; her daughter-in-law: Danette Johnston, her grandchild: Ash Johnston, her siblings: Connie Peterson, and Mari Smith; her nephew: Eric Peterson; and her niece: Stacy Vu.
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