Byron "Jay" Johnston

Byron Junior Johnston, lovingly known as "Jay" passed away on October 13, 2025, after a courageous, strong and determined battle with small cell cancer.  He led all his loved ones with this same strong courage and passion. He passed resting in the love of his family.  Jay was born to Byron and Gladys Johnston and grew up on a farm in Yuma Colorado.  The eldest of 5 children, brothers Rex (wife Colleen -preceded in death), Don (wife Lynn) and Dick -preceded in death (wife Laura) and one beautiful sister Rita (husband Fred). 

He married his beautiful bride Norma (Huffaker) Johnston on June 11th 1960. He was a devoted husband and loving father of Timothy (preceded in death) (wife Carol) Johnston, Stanley Johnston, Kristi (husband Chuck) Ramsey. He is the wonderful grandfather to Chad (wife Melissa) Johnston, Brent Johnston, Faith Ramsey, Joshua (wife Sarah) Johnston, Stanna (husband Ty) Thourot and a blessed great grandfather to Emilynn (of Chad and Melissa), Abbey and Mackenzie (of Brent) and Colton (of Joshua and Sarah). He will be and is deeply missed by all who knew him. 

One of the kindest souls on this planet, our father was a gentle, giving man who worked tirelessly to ensure that his family had everything they needed. He faced every challenge in life with admirable strength and courage. 

Early in life, our father learned the importance of hard work as a farmer and co-owner of Johnston Brothers Construction. In 1983 he became co-owner of Byron Johnston and Sons Construction and enjoyed working side by side with his beloved sons. He retired from Construction in 1996 but continued to work as a landlord to multiple complexes in both Fort Collins and Loveland. He proudly and diligently worked the land of his 10-acre farm producing many homegrown vegetable's that he often gave away too many of his tenants. He instilled that same work ethic in his children and grandchildren. He was always there for us, whether we needed help from homework to finances or just a shoulder to cry on. He was a man of strong faith, and he taught us the importance of family, hard work and doing what is right. Our father was a true role model who we will always look up to. 

A celebration of life will be held at the Fort Collins Timberline Church on November 15th at 10:00 am with a reception/gathering to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Byron & Norma Johnston Living Trust. 

Father, you are now at peace, but you will live on forever in our hearts. We love you so much. Until we meet again at heaven's gate, rest peacefully in Christ's loving embrace.