Obituary of John Ervine Johnston

It is with great sadness that the family of John Ervine Johnston announce his passing which occurred on Monday, May 18, 2026, at his residence in Sussex, NB. Born in Summerside, PEI on August 9, 1940, he was the son of the late George and Selma (Jensen) Johnston.

There was no prouder Maritimer than our Dad, Ervine Johnston — a man of many talents, trades, and stories. He appreciated and embodied diligence, determination, and grit, working in many fields throughout his life, from the railway and the Reserves, to sheet metal work and flipping houses. He was proud of the discipline, tradition, and strong work ethic that shaped him from a young age and carried through all of his endeavours.

One of Dad’s greatest passions was music, which remained a constant throughout his life. A talented drummer who participated in various pipe bands over the years, he later picked up the saxophone and became highly proficient with it. He also played the spoons, mouth organ, and performed in several bands spanning country, contemporary, and his much-loved fiddle music — proof that music truly ran in his blood. As youngsters, we remember many musical kitchen parties that carried late into the night.

Throughout his life, Dad enjoyed spending time outdoors, dancing, skating, gardening, and reading non-fiction, The Farmer’s Almanac, and stories rooted in the East Coast. He was known as a social, direct, and charismatic man with a sharp sense of humour and quick wit. He was fiercely loyal to his brothers, sisters, and their families, and they felt it deeply.

You could often find Dad seated at his kitchen table, CBC Radio humming in the background, while he indulged in life’s simple comforts: fresh strawberries with cream, coffee, fresh baked bread with plenty of butter and molasses, ginger snap cookies, baked ham and potato scallop, lobster dinners, Ganong chocolate, knee slaps, and boisterous laughter. Dad was memorable long before his passing and will continue to be remembered long after.

Ervine is survived by his daughters: Tracey Johnston (Joe Smearer) of St. Stephen, NB, and Tamera Johnston (Danny LeBlanc) of Lakeville, NB; grandchildren: Christian, Jamie and Ashley; great granddaughter Evelyn; brother Allison Johnston (Elaine) of Hampton, NB; sisters:  Sylvia Van Patten of Las Vegas, NV and Janet Petty of Riverview, NB; as well as many nieces, nephews and extended family. In addition to his parents, Ervine was predeceased by his brother Douglas Johnston; and brother-in-law James Petty.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Reid’s Funeral Home (506-832-5541), 1063 Main Street, Hampton, NB. Visitation will be held on Saturday, May 23, 2026 from 12 to 2pm, followed by the funeral service at 2:00pm all from Reid’s Funeral Home. A private family interment will take place at Hampton Rural Cemetery.

Donations in memory of Ervine may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice. Personal condolences to the family and memorial donations may be made through ReidsFH.com.