Lizabeth A Johnston's Obituary
Lizabeth A. Johnston, 85, of Lutz, FL rejoined the Lord Friday, June 5, 2020. She was predeceased by her husband Robert Johnston. She will be missed by her loving family; Debbie (Paul), Tim (Rhonda), Jill (Joanne), Evan, and Janice (Robert). Meme will also be missed by her nine grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren; Ryan (Justine), Evan (Claudia), Katie (Tommy), Kylie (Jerry), Kristina (Riley), Timmy (Michelle), Emily (Jake), Joshua, Noah, Aiden, Ethan, Jacob, Alice, Emilia, Ginette, Felix, Vincent, Penelope, Kasey, Noelle, Chloe, Jesse, and her beloved dog Jackie.
Liz was born in Scranton, Pennsylvania. She was a bank teller after high school (handling money from day one). She married her husband Robert Johnston in 1956. Together they raised five beautiful children. They lived in Flushing, NY, Albany, NY, Erie, PA, Rochester, NY and made their way to Tampa, FL in 1983.
In 1976, Liz and Bob opened their first Hallmark store, “Johnston’s Friendlinest.” Their business grew to seven successful Johnston’s Hallmark stores throughout the Tampa Bay area. Liz was known as the “Hallmark Lady.” She was a fire cracker with her employees. They were hard-working, dedicated, and loyal. Liz adored all her customers except the ones who stole from her! It did not matter what kind of card or gift you were looking for, Liz would find it for you. She loved everyone that came into her stores and Liz would take time to get to know them and acknowledge how much she appreciated every single one of them.
Liz cherished her family most of all. She knew how to bring everyone together. She loved sitting at the table in front of a big plate of pasta looking at her family and thanking God for all He had given her. Liz enjoyed going to Disney World, the beach, or anywhere with her family. You could spot her a mile away with blinking lights, dazzling white hair, and pins galore. She made everyone who looked at her smile.
On Sunday mornings you could spot Liz in her favorite seat at Bay Hope Church. She sang enthusiastically, hands raised, and clapping off key. As a Bay Hope Church member, she was dedicated to volunteering at Mort Elementary, attending small groups, bible study, being a greeter, and writing cards for the prayer and care ministry. She also delighted in Friday mornings, with her son Evan, and their special prayer group, Pray Tampa Bay.
Most important to Liz was Jesus, Family, Jackie, and Ice cream. She was a beacon of light, love, and joy. Her heart was grateful. She would count her blessings every day and taught us to do the same. You could hear her “Woo, Woos!” after every prayer and celebration we had together.
A celebration of life will be held Saturday, June 13th at 11:00AM Immediate family only, please join us Online Streaming: https://www.youtube.com/bayhopechurch/live. In Lieu of Flowers, Donations can be made to Bay Hope Church, Adopt a School.
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