James N. "Spike" Johnston, age 85, of Leitchfield, KY, passed away Saturday, (February 24, 2024) at his residence.

He was born on October 6, 1938 in Hart County, KY, the son of the late Charles Hubert and Mary Charles Pierce Johnston.

He worked as a foreman for the State Highway Department and was a farmer. He enjoyed walking and exercising, and working on his farm. Spike loved spending time with his family and his church family. He loved reading his prayers and attending church activities.  He married Celia Faye Childress Johnston on February 17, 1961, and they built a life together until her death on January 15, 2023. He was a member of St. Augustine Catholic Church for 35 years.

He is survived by his daughters, Linda Johnston Probus of Peonia and Rhonda Jacobs (Kenny) of Leitchfield; eight grandchildren, Jacob, Caleb, Merissa, Alexis, Chris, Tyler, CJ, and James "Spikie"; eight great-grandchildren, Makenzy, Allyson, Sidney, Alice, "Lil" Caleb, Teddy, Lane, and Payton; seven sisters, Betty Johnston, Barbara Childress, Patricia "Tish" Powell, Sharon Roberts, Marlene Hedger, Anita "Tootsie" Jaggers, Mary Jonell Chambers; seven brothers, Jerry, Ernie, Wayne, Jed, David "Doodie", Charlie, and Joseph Michael "Joey" Johnston; and several nieces and nephews.

Other than his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Celia Faye Childress Johnston; daughter, Melissa Johnston; son, James Jr. Johnston 'Jamie"; and brother, Carman Johnston.

Funeral services will be at 12:00 p.m. Friday, (March 1, 2024) at the St. Augustine Catholic Church, 30 St Augustine Church Road in Clarkson, KY. Father Brian Johnson will be officiating. Entombment will be in the St. Benedict Catholic Cemetery, 6874 Wax Road in Clarkson, KY.

Visitation will be at the Dermitt Funeral Home from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday and from 9:00 a.m. Friday at the funeral home until time to leave for the church for services. A Prayer Service will be held on Thursday night.