Anthony Franklin Johnston

Anthony Franklin Johnston, 51, passed away Saturday morning at his home in Gulfport. He was born April 25, 1969 in Knoxville, TN, the son of Bill Johnston and Reajeania Brantley Johnston. He would grow up in and around Knoxville for the most part, where he came to enjoy music and drama. Tony, as he was known by most, loved the stage where he participated in several plays earlier in life. But he also enjoyed music as well, organizing and participating in several bands during the late 80s and 90s. He was widely known as "Judy Batts number 1 fan" for years, as he was close friends with members of the group. Tony met Stephaine one evening in 2005 at the Warehouse, a favorite local spot. He told her that same night he was going to marry her, it just took him five years to get her to agree. She did, and they spent the rest of their lives together making memories along the way. With Tony's inspiration, they both returned to school and obtained bachelor's degrees. They moved to Gulfport in 2012 after graduation and have lived here since. Tony gave his heart to the Lord in 2015 and was baptized at Breaking Barriers Ministries. First Assembly of God was their church home and he would eagerly serve wherever he was needed. He had a powerful testimony that he dearly loved to share, never
missing an opportunity to do so. He was a spontaneous, adventurous kind of guy that enjoyed going to the beach, watching movies and dining at local places. He was also a huge Alabama
football fan. Tony loved life and will no doubt be fondly remembered by all who knew and loved him. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, W.H. & Ethel Johnston. Left to
cherish his memories are: his loving wife, Stephaine; their children: Bonnie (Jorge) Ortiz, Mickel and Molly Sherrill, all of Oak Ridge, TN; his father Bill (Eva) Johnston of Signal Mtn, TN and mother Jean Franklin of Knoxville; one sister, Tammy (Mike) Puckett of Powell, TN, with his nephews Billy (Kelly) and Taylor (Mary) Puckett, also of Powell. He leaves a legacy of
eight grandchildren: Jorahius, Jaiden, Kendall, William, Kai, Mickel, Gabriel and Olivia, with great niece Winnie and great nephew Eli, along with many extended family, friends and neighbors through the years. Tony's final wishes were to be cremated, which his family is honoring. A Celebration of his Life will be held Saturday afternoon, June 27th at First Assembly of God in
Gulfport, with C.J. Hoda officiating. Everyone who knew and loved him is encouraged to attend. Trinity Funeral Services is honored to serve the Johnston family in their time
of need, asking everyone to keep them in your prayers through this difficult valley.  

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