Darrell F. Johnston

Darrell Fraser Johnston, 58, passed away unexpectedly Monday, January 5th, 2026, at his home in Warwick, RI.

Darrell was born October 20, 1967 and was the son of Nancy C. Johnston and the late Robert B. Johnston. He, along with his younger sister, Kimberly Anne Johnston, grew up in North Attleboro, MA. Darrell graduated from North Attleboro High School with the class of 1985 prior to his attending ITT Technical Institute. He held several jobs in the security industry, eventually landing a position with the Campus Safety and Security Department at Johnson and Wales University in Providence RI in 2000, where he was still currently employed.

In his youth, Darrell was a thespian and musician. His interest in the theater was sparked by a role as George Washington in the 3rd grade which then developed into lighting, set building, as well as acting. Darrell played brass instruments in both the concert and marching band, specializing in tuba and sousaphone. He was also active in the boy scouts, alongside his father, and particularly enjoyed summer camp where he exercised his musical talents as the buglar. His interests eventually shifted towards renaissance fairs, where he was able to incorporate both music and theatrics in role play.

For more than 25 years Darrell served as a valued member of Campus Safety and Security at Johnson and Wales University. He joined as a patrol officer and was promoted to corporal (2001), sergeant (2005) and lieutenant (2005). He was deeply devoted to system improvements including inaugural development of the policy and procedure manual, upgrading camera and access systems across campus and re-establishing an honor guard, of which he was a member.

Darrell was an avid Star Wars fan and had a large collection of original memorabilia. He also collected coffee mugs and shot glasses when he traveled. There was always an open book by his side and he worked his way through many fantasy, crime and science fiction series, particularly when spending quiet weekends at home with his cats, which were constant companions throughout his life.

Relatives and friends are cordially invited to a Celebration of Life at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, April 17, 2026, at the First Congregational Church, 675 Old Post Road, North Attleboro, MA 02760.

Burial will be in Mount Hope Cemetery and Arboretum, 565 Mt Hope Street, North Attleboro.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that contributions in Darrell's memory be made to the American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 7023, Merrifield, VA 22116 or an organization of your choice.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Dyer-Lake Funeral Home, 161 Commonwealth Avenue, Village of Attleboro Falls, North Attleboro, MA. (508) 695-0200

For additional information or to send the family a written expression of sympathy, please visit our online guest book at www.dyer-lakefuneralhome.com