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JAMES JOHNSTON Obituary

JOHNSTON--James. James Robert "Jim" Johnston passed away on November 15, 2023 at his home in Venice, CA. He was 87 years old and died of natural causes. Jim was a graduate of Northwestern University in Illinois and had a long career in advertising (Leo Burnett in Chicago and Young and Rubicam in Chicago, Los Angeles and New York) until, in 1977, he opened Johnston Films and became a commercial film director. He directed hundreds of commercials and received many industry awards before closing his company and becoming a television series director. He was a proud member of the DGA and worked on such shows as Miami Vice, Tour of Duty, Babylon 5, and Touched by an Angel. Jim is survived by his wife and business partner, Noel Johnston, and his sons Chance and Kevin, as well as two grandchildren (Evelyn and James Johnston) and his three sisters April Newland, Roberta Dudovick and Janet Moran. A celebration of his life and legacy will be held in 2024. He was an inspiration to all who knew him and will be forever missed by family and friends.

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

Published by New York Times on Dec. 17, 2023.

Memories and Condolences
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5 Entries

Ayse Campbell Aygun

March 6, 2024

You were warm and kind and cared for your family and loved ones well.
I know that you were very much loved.
I hope you are out there making for a fun afterlife.
All my love and condolences to Noel and Chance and the whole family.

wayne m stremel

March 6, 2024

Our sincere condolences to Noel and family. Jim was a true friend to our beloved Uncle Max and it was an honor to meet Jim and Noel in the sunset years of Maxie's life. Jim was instrumental in settling our Uncle's worldly affairs, and we are eternally grateful for Jim's friendship and willingness to help and provide support and guidance. Luv-Luv, the Stremel family.

Sondra Waggoner Yoshikane

January 9, 2024

Noel, I am so sorry for your loss. Jim was a kind and caring person, wonderful boss, and talented director. My thoughts are with you.

John Tolve

December 24, 2023

Very sad to hear this. Only met maybe a couple of times many years ago. He was bubbling with enthusiasm. My deepest sympathy to Chance, Kevin and his entire family.

Jayne McKay

December 23, 2023

We will miss Jim and remember him well. Good memories of happy times and fun productions!
Alan and Jayne McKay

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