Fern Johnston of Meaford passed away peacefully at Brightshores Owen Sound Hospital on Monday, June 22, 2026, at the age of 84.
Born in Owen Sound on April 19, 1942, a daughter of the late Gordon and Pansy (nee Parker) Cathrae. Fern was predeceased by her beloved husband of more than 56 years, Wallace Arthur ‘Wally’ Johnston, on December 25, 2021.
She was the kindhearted and loving mother of Marie Wilson (Ron) and Ed Johnston (Carolyn), and proud grandma of Adam and Lucas Johnston; Nathan (Mary), Jonathan, Mathew and Bethany Wilson; and great-grandmother to Emma.
Fern was predeceased by her infant son Steven, brother Stan Cathrae (late Anne), sister Marg Byers (Murray), sister-in-law Ellouise Hoggard (late Maurice), brother-in-law Len Johnston, and will be remembered fondly by many nieces, nephews, and their families.
Family and friends meant the world to Fern; she treasured every minute. She loved caring for others, whether it was her time as a nurse at the Owen Sound Hospital, time caring for her children and grandchildren, or time preparing meals and sweets for others to enjoy. Her church family was a big part of her life, volunteering and enjoying visits and lots of laughs. Fern and Wally took great pride in their home on the 15/16 in Meaford where they raised their family since 1966. She kept herself busy and active. Fern loved to get out walking and never stopped; even when she slowed down a little, she kept moving forward.
Family will receive friends at the Ferguson Funeral Home in Meaford on Monday, June 29, 2026, from 6 until 8 p.m. A funeral service will be conducted at the Cook Street Pentecostal Church on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, at 11 o’clock with a reception following. A service of committal and interment will take place at Lakeview Cemetery in Meaford.
As your expression of sympathy, donations to the Foodgrains Bank or the Cook Street Tabernacle (cheques only please) would be appreciated and may be made through the Ferguson Funeral Home, 48 Boucher St. E., Meaford, ON, N4L 1B9, to whom arrangements have been entrusted.
