Margaret Ann “Molly” Johnston, 84, died peacefully on April 4, 2017 at INOVA Fairfax Hospital in Falls Church, VA. She is survived by her husband, Earl R. Johnston of Culpeper, VA, her college sweetheart, best friend and most appreciative husband of 58 years; and Jay Abbott of Rocky Mount, VA, her “other son” and cousin along with many relatives of the McMinnis family, including especially close cousins Loretta Williams and Vickie Clarke of Roanoke.
She was proceeded in death by her beloved children, Tom, David and Danny; and her parents, Emmett Smith of Altavista, VA and Adell Smith of Roanoke, VA.
In her career, after Madison College, Molly was employed, most often as a secretary, by American Viscose, Appalachian Power Company, the Federal Reserve Bank in Culpeper and in Richmond, and for the Culpeper County and Lynchburg Public Schools.
Molly was gracious, reserved and friendly to all. She loved her family and was a devoted mother. She was always positive, seeing only the good in others. She never put herself first. She also had a funny, dry wit. She was soft and strong – and, oh, that smile!
Molly enjoyed reading novels, wore classic clothes beautifully, relished UVA basketball, but with reservations about the referees. Other interests included European riverboat travel and touring the USA, having visited every state capital. She never missed her favorite TV show, NCIS. She began playing golf in her retirement, and did really well – she was a good putter, even had two holes-in-one. Homemaking brought joy to her; she was an accomplished cook and made a real effort in “raising” her husband.
The family will receive friends in Culpeper, VA on Thursday, April 13, 2017 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Found and Sons Funeral Chapel, 850 Sperryville Pike, Culpeper, VA. In Roanoke, at 2 to 4 p.m. a gathering of family and friends will be held Saturday, April 15, 2017 at Oakey’s South Chapel, 4257 Brambleton Ave., Roanoke, VA. Burial will be private.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions, if desired, may be directed to the Free Clinic, 610 Laurel St., Suite 3, Culpeper, VA 22701 &/or to Riverside Tappahannock Hospital, “Making a Difference Fund”, PO Box 458, Tappahannock, VA 22567. An online guestbook and tribute wall are available at www.foundandsons.com Found and Sons Funeral Chapel of Culpeper is serving the family.
