Caroline Johnston

1938 - 2025

Caroline Baunach Johnston, age 87, passed away peacefully on November 26, 2025, surrounded by the family she loved with her whole heart. Born on March 22, 1938, in Massapequa, Long Island, New York, Caroline lived a life defined by courage, determination, and unwavering spirit. At just nineteen, she left New York and drove herself across the country to California to begin a new life, a bold act that became the hallmark of her character. She lived unapologetically, spoke her mind, pursued what she wanted, and taught everyone around her the value of hard work and giving 100% in everything she did.

Caroline dedicated her life to children and education. A lifelong learner herself, she earned her Associate of Arts in Early Childhood Education from Great Basin College in 1996. She held many jobs throughout her life, but they all ultimately led her to her true calling: teaching preschool. For Caroline, teaching was not just a job-it was a ministry. She saw each day in the classroom as an opportunity to share the love of Christ with children, and she sought to glorify Jesus in all she did. She was one of the first teachers at St. Mark's Lutheran Preschool and later became the Director, guiding the program with vision, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to young children.

In addition to her work in education, Caroline served her community in countless ways, such as Girl Scout Chairman and girls' softball coach. Creative and always working with her hands, Caroline loved toll painting and creating beautiful pieces of stained glass, filling her home and the lives of others with artwork that reflected her imagination, talent, and heart.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 58 years, Jim Johnston; her daughters LeeAnne (Randy) Hadlock, Misty Jo (John) Cochrane, Dedee (Dallas) Orchard; and her son James (Traci) Johnston. She was a proud and loving grandmother to Emilia, Josiah, Holly, Layla, Nika, Bradock, Ashlyn, Tyler, Bailey, Parker, Drake, Quinn, and Jackson each of whom brought tremendous joy and purpose to her life. She is also survived by her sister Phyllis Jo Baunach (Chuck Dunleavy).

Caroline's legacy is that she taught by example, with action, honesty, and heart. And those who loved her will never forget her signature phrase, "Love you more," words she meant each time spoken. Her spirit lives on in every life she touched, especially in her children and grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life will be held at St. Mark Lutheran Church, 277 Willow St., at 11:00 a.m. on December 6th, with a light lunch to follow. Because she loved the color blue, all in attendance are encouraged to wear blue in her honor.

In remembrance of Caroline, contributions may be made to St. Mark Lutheran Preschool, or floral tributes may be ordered through www.leeannesfloraldesigns.com.