Hal Duane Johnston

Hal Johnston, 74, was called home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on May 26, 2026, following a long illness.

Hal was born on October 25, 1951, in Exeter, California, to Douglas and June Johnston. He was raised in Strathmore, California, where he developed a lifelong love of sports, the outdoors, learning, and faith.

Hal was a gifted athlete from an early age and was active in sports throughout his elementary, high school, and college years. He excelled in baseball, football, track, tennis, and basketball. He attended Porterville Community College, where he played quarterback for the football team and pitcher for the baseball team. He continued his education at California State University, Fresno, graduating magna cum laude with a degree in biology and a life science teaching credential. He later earned a master's degree in biology, followed by a credential to teach mathematics.

Hal shared his love of science and mathematics through his teaching at Valley Oak Middle School in Visalia, California, where he inspired generations of students. Teaching was more than a profession to Hal-it was a calling, and he found great joy in helping others learn and grow.

Hal was an avid outdoorsman who found joy in God's creation. He enjoyed fly fishing, bass fishing, plant collecting, and birding. He was recognized several times as Angler of the Year while a member of the Success Lake Bass Club. He was also a member of the Tulare County Audubon Society, participating in numerous winter bird counts for the Cornell University eBird database.

Hal was also a skilled woodworker and enjoyed building furniture and cabinets for family and friends. His craftsmanship, generosity, and attention to detail will be remembered and cherished by those who received his work.

Faith was the foundation of Hal's life. He was a devoted member of Faith Baptist Church of Strathmore, where he faithfully served as a trustee, deacon, and Sunday School teacher for many years. His love for the Lord was evident in the way he lived, served, and cared for others. His steady faith and servant's heart left a lasting impact on his family, church, and community.

Hal is survived by his high school sweetheart and beloved wife of 54 years, Barbara; his children, Michael Johnston (Jamie) and Allison Atherton (Doran); six cherished grandchildren; his parents, Douglas and June Johnston; and his sisters, Joni Eisner (Greg), Tami Martin (Jon), and Jill Briones (Gary), and many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Hal will be remembered for his unwavering faith, his love for family, his passion for teaching, and his deep appreciation for the outdoors and God's creation. While he will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him, his family rejoices in the promise that he is now at peace in the presence of his Savior.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Faith Baptist Church, 19661 Roth Road, Strathmore, on Friday, June 5, 2026, at 11:30 a.m.

Arrangements are being handled by Myers Funeral Service & Crematory, 248 N. "E" Street, Porterville, California. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.myersfuneral.com.