Mr Stanley Johnston

MR Stanley Johnston, of Rocks Chapel Road, Crossgar, who died last Tuesday, May 2, after a short illness, was a popular and respected member of the community who will be much missed. He was 79.

The only child of Jack and Rachel Johnston, Mr Johnston was reared in the Crossgar area. He trained as a joiner, but spent his working career in the health service, mostly at Purdysburn Hospital.

He was devoted to his wife, Jessie, a nursing sister in the Downe Hospital, and his son, Mark. His wife’s death in 2011 was a bitter blow. Mr and Mrs Johnston were faithful members of Down Cathedral and were always willing to lend a helping hand with church activities.

Away from his family, Mr Johnston’s great passion was horses. He greatly enjoyed riding, looking after and watching them at race meetings. His enthusiasm was not diminished after he suffered a serious accident some years ago.

In later years he enjoyed sailing at Killyleagh Yacht Club and helping at the East Down Foxhounds point-to-point races at Tyrella. He also benefited from the friendship of many people, including Sheila McKee and her family, Gordon Miles and Mary Savage.

Mr Johnston was a personable, caring and quiet man, who had a great affinity with people and was always courteous, considerate and kind.

Dean Henry Hull conducted the largely attended funeral service in Down Cathedral on Saturday, which was followed by interment in the adjoining graveyard.

The sympathy of the community is extended to his son, Mark, daughter-in-law Arlene and the wider family circle.