Major General Gary Wayne Johnston

Major General Gary Wayne Johnston led an extraordinary life of leadership, mentorship and kindness. His love for God, country, and family started in Russellville, Arkansas, where he was born October 21, 1964. Of utmost importance was his love for family. His untimely death January 20, 2022, leaves an indelible mark on his beloved wife and soulmate Brigadier General Amy Johnston; his endearing mother Bonnie; and his loving children – daughter Lauren Woodworth (Matt), and sons Blake and Parker Johnston. He is also warmly remembered by his aunts Kitty Johnston and Vernice Ramsay, along with many cousins and friends. Gary loved fishing, football, tennis, bowling, music, rollercoasters and chocolate. He also loved his Army and his Soldiers.
Gary served the U.S. Army with distinction for over 34 years. His depth and breadth of service spanned across tactical, operational and strategic leadership levels, including overseas tours in Germany, the first Gulf War and Afghanistan; culminating in his command of the U.S. Army Intelligence and Security Command at Fort Belvoir, Virginia. Following his retirement from the Army October 1, 2021, Gary joined several long-time friends and colleagues at Touchstone Futures, where he served as the executive vice president for intelligence, security and risk. Gary also served on the advisory board for Leyden Solutions. Throughout his life, he cultivated his passion for mentorship. Gary leaves a legacy of distinguished service and an immeasurable impact on the organizations and people he led.
Gary was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Roy and Minnie Johnston; his maternal grandparents, John and Mrs. Stewart; and his father Chief Warrant Officer 5 (Retired) Herman Johnston. There will be a family service and follow-on visitations at Cunningham Turch Funeral Home in Alexandria, Virginia, February 4 and 5, 2022. Major General Johnston will be interred with full military honors in a graveside service at Arlington National Cemetery February 18, 2022. Separate memorial services will be scheduled in February at Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall and in his hometown, Russellville, Arkansas. Gary cared very much about others, especially in the areas of leadership, mentorship and veteran transition. In lieu of flowers, please visit www.garywjohnston.life, where donations can support these three pillars close to his heart.