Merle Jane Johnston

Merle Jane Warner Johnston, of Ethel, Louisiana (formerly of Zachary), aged 93 years, peacefully passed away on March 30, 2023

On Mother’s Day, May 12, 1929 Merle was born in Mission, TX to John and Beulah Warner. On March 28, 1946 she married Thomas Jacob (TJ) Johnston, and through this union had four daughters.

Merle was an active and beloved member of Zachary Church of Christ, retired from the City of Zachary and was a member of the Louisiana Municipal Clerks Association.

Generous with her time, love, and kindness, she was a Sunday school teacher, public school volunteer, and always willing to help anyone, whether they be stranger, family or friend. Merle was the bedrock and touchstone of her family, guiding them with her love of Christ, her fortitude, wisdom, and hope.

Merle was preceded in death by her parents, husband, daughter Carol Jean Gros, grandson Thomas Ray Fleming, son-in-law Thomas Ernie Butler, Jr., brother Jack Warner and two sisters, Dorothy Duty and Laverne Rasco.

Merle is survived by daughters Janie Marie Dunn (Hughey), Tommie Ann Butler, and Patricia Jo Mauldin (Al); grandchildren Anna Marie Rushing Powers (William), Larry Eugene Rushing, Jr. (Joni), Michael Shannon Rushing, Merle Annette Boykin, Jewell Michelle Fleming, Christopher Michael Dunaway, Valda Christine Butler (Brandon Posey), Alicia Renee Mauldin Dighton (Caleb); great grandchildren Jordan Powers (Haley), Taylor and Brooke Powers, Cameron and Connor Rushing, Kaitlyn Jones (Delaine), Thomas Clark, Jacob Moll, Landon Posey, Adele and Carter Dighton; great-great grandchildren Danton and Ainslee Jones, Karson Powers; many nieces and nephews.

While Merle did not show favoritism, she adored her niece, Billie Jean Rasco. The family also recognizes Bryan and Kim Heikes for making Merle’s days brighter, and the staff at Grace Nursing Home MCU and Hospice of Baton Rouge for their love and excellent care of Merle.