Walter F. Johnston, Jr.

Walter F. Johnston, Jr. obituary, Hyattsville, MD

Walter F. Johnston, Jr.

Walter Johnston, Jr. Obituary

Visit the Gasch's Funeral Home, P.A. website to view the full obituary.

Walter F. Johnston, Jr.

May 9, 1948 – November 3, 2025

Walter “Walt” Fredrick Johnston, Jr., 77, of Hyattsville, Maryland, passed away peacefully at home on November 3, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on May 9, 1948, in Aliquippa, Pennsylvania, Walter was the son of the late Walter Johnston, Sr. and Irene Price (Johnston). He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather whose warmth, humor, and larger-than-life presence filled every room he entered.

Walter is survived by his loving wife of 44 years, Rosemary “Rose” Johnston, and their three children, Matthew Johnston, Christina Troncoso (Alvin), and Bridget Johnston. He was a proud and adoring grandfather to Elijah and Jocelyn Rose Troncoso, who brought him endless joy. He also leaves behind his sisters Janette Griffith, Barbara Smith (Daniel), and Stella Ernstes (Richard); brothers Ira Price, Jr. (Shirley), Douglas Price Sr. (Margo), and Dennis Price (Brenda); and many beloved nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents, Walter Johnston, Sr. and Irene Price (Johnston); his stepfather, Ira Price, Sr.; and his sisters Cynthia Holden (Charles), Bertha Johnston, and Debra Murvin (Price).

Walter had a lifelong love of bowling, model trains, and classic movies, often spending hours watching TCM with a grin and his trademark running commentary. In recent years, he found a new favorite pastime in the ID Channel, never missing a good mystery or crime story. He also had a knack for numbers and enjoyed keeping up with the lottery, always confident in the system he’d developed over the years, and proud when it paid off. But above all, Walter’s greatest source of pride was his family. He loved deeply and without condition, and he never missed an opportunity to express how proud he was of his wife and children.

Those who knew Walter will remember his big heart, quick wit, and the laughter and life he brought wherever he went. He will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Gasch's Funeral Home, P.A.

4739 Baltimore Avenue, Hyattsville, MD 20781

Make a Donation
in Walter Johnston, Jr.'s name

How to support Walter's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services., and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor Walter Johnston, Jr.'s life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more