Philip "Bird" Johnston

Philip Duane "Bird" Johnston, 81, husband of Kathy Dobson Johnston, went to be with the Lord February 13, 2026.

Born February 10, 1945, to the late Rev. Karl Wesley Johnston and Ruth Adams Johnston in Iva, South Carolina, with his sister, Karla Johnston and brother, David Johnston, the family moved to Greer where his father served the Wesleyan Methodist Church. Philip later became a member of Memorial Methodist Church, Greer.

Philip graduated from Clemson University with a degree in financial management. He was a tiger fan win or lose, but when Clemson won, all was right with the world. He enjoyed his employment with several architecture and engineering firms in Greenville and the opportunities that gave him to see this country.

He and his wife Kathy treasured the 57 years they had together and their family; children, Jennifer Johnston (Dereck) and Andy Johnston (Jenny); and grandchildren, Zach Dorn, Tillie Rea Johnston, Agnes Johnston, and Gretchen Johnston. Bird was never happier than when he was taking Zach to the Clock or welcoming his granddaughters from Savannah. Cocoa was his grandpuppy who made him feel better when he was feeling down.

In his later years Philip endured some illness, but he did not let that diminish his joy. He loved his life, his family, and his friends deeply. Love was his strength.

Funeral services will be held 2:00 p.m., Monday, February 16, 2026, at Memorial Methodist Church conducted by Rev. David Smith and Rev. David Johnston. Burial will follow in Wood Memorial Park.

Visitation will be held 12:45-1:45 p.m., Monday, February 16, 2026, at the church.

The family will be at the home.

Memorials may be made to Memorial Methodist Church, 201 North Main Street, Greer, South Carolina 29650.

Online condolences may be made to www.thewoodmortuary.com.