James J. Johnston

James J. Johnston, 76, of Philadelphia, passed away peacefully on April 10, 2026.

Jim was the beloved son of the late James and Rita Johnston, and the devoted husband of Anne “Sissy” (nee Duffield), with whom he shared 52 years of loving marriage. He was a dedicated and dearly loved dad to Kerri Finnegan (Matthew) of Farmingdale, NJ, and Colleen Kenney (Martin) of Yardley, PA. He was an adored Grandpop to Katelyn and Aly Finnegan. Jim was the cherished brother of Robert (Linda) and Thomas (Kathleen). He is also survived by many loving nieces and nephews, a large extended family, and dear friends who were like family to him.

Jim grew up in the Manayunk section of Philadelphia and attended Holy Family Church, where the foundation of his faith and character was formed. He graduated from Roman Catholic High School in 1967 and later from LaSalle University in 1996, accomplishments he cherished deeply. His courage and sense of duty led him to serve in the 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile), deploying to Vietnam and Cambodia in 1970 with B Company, 1st Battalion, 7th Cavalry (B 1 7 Cav). There, he served with quiet bravery, earning a Purple Heart for wounds sustained in combat—an honor he carried with humility throughout his life.

After returning home, Jim met and married his best friend, Sissy. Together, they raised their family in Northeast Philadelphia, where Jim was a long‑time and devoted member of St. Katherine of Siena Parish. He spent more than 40 years as a dedicated employee of Thalheimer Brothers, forming lifelong friendships and earning the respect of all who worked alongside him.

Jim took immense pride in the lives and accomplishments of his children and grandchildren. Their successes brought him tremendous joy, and he never missed an opportunity to celebrate them.

Jim’s relatives and friends are invited to his viewing on Thursday, April 23, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 10:45 A.M. at St. Katherine of Siena Church (9700 Frankford Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19114), followed by a funeral mass at 11:00 A.M. Interment will follow with a 1:00 PM service at Washington Crossing National Cemetery, 830 Highland Ave, Newtown, PA 18940.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) in Jim’s Memory. Donate to Veterans | Veterans Charity | WWP.