Patrick Roland Johnston

Patrick Roland Johnston, aged 79 years, of Independence, Kansas, was called home to be with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on May 18, 2026, while at his home surrounded by family.

Patrick was born on August 30, 1946, to Reverend James (Bill) Johnston and Leota (Patterson) Johnston, in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma. Patrick was a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather. Big Pat, as he was known by many, lived a life marked by his devotion to his family and his church. After graduating from Broken Arrow High School in 1964, Patrick went into the army where he served honorably from 1966 to 1968 earning the rank of Sergeant. After returning home from the army, he married the love of his life, Kathryn (Harsen) Johnston, and the two shared nearly 58 years together. Patrick's life was defined by his values and interests. He was a longtime member of First Baptist Church serving as a deacon for several years, also for the security team and campus development. He was also a member of the Masonic Lodge, a member of the Shriners, and a leader in the Boy Scouts of America for many years.

In addition to serving his community, Patrick engaged in many hobbies including scuba diving, model trains, antique cars, and traveling. He and his wife had visited all 50 states as well as a few countries.

In his younger years, Patrick returned to school and obtained his associates degree from ICC becoming a laboratory technician. He enjoyed helping people running the lab at Mercy Hospital and later the Clinic Lab for the doctors. After that he managed the local O'Reilly's store for several years.

Those left behind to cherish his memory are his wife, Kathy; his son, Patrick, and wife, Anne Johnston, and their children, Ruby, Kathleen, and Lucy Mae; his daughter, Kimberly Nettles, and her children, Tanner and wife, Annie Sanborn, and their children, Caelum Joe, Everett Roland, and Mickey Randy; Morgan and husband, Jeffery Simpson, and their child, Scarlett Marie; his sister, Jamie McDaris, and her husband, Mac; his brother, Mike Johnston, and his wife, Dana; his sister, Keri Willis, and husband, Jeff; and many nieces and nephews.

He was proceeded in death by his parents, Bill and Leota Johnston and his son-in-law, Donnie Nettles.

A visitation will be held at the First Baptist Church, Saturday, May 30th, from 2 to 3pm, family and friends are invited to share memories of Patrick's remarkable life. A service will follow at the First Baptist Church, Saturday, May 30th, from 3 to 4pm. A graveside service will follow at Mount Hope Cemetery in Independence, Kansas. 

Memorial donations can be made to the American Cancer Society or to the Gary Sinise Foundation. 

"When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." ~ John 8:12