George Michael Johnston

George "Michael" Johnston, best known by all those who knew and loved him as Bobo, took his final breath on September 20, 2023, in Newnan, GA, after a courageous battle with lung cancer. Born on April 12, 1945, in Jacksonville, FL, Michael is preceded in death by his parents, Mr. Clarence A. Johnston (Josephine) and Mary Jane Matthews, and survived by his siblings Clarence Johnston, brother and best friend Richard Johnston (Coco), Debby Deese (Spencer), and Dot Browning (Morgan). Michael's magnetic, larger-than-life persona left an indelible impact on all who were fortunate to cross his path.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, September 30, 2023 at 10:00am in the chapel of McMullen Funeral home with Rev. Eddie Beach officiating. A visitation will take place Friday, September 29, 2023 from 6:00-8:00pm at McMullen Funeral Home and Crematory 3874 Gentian Blvd. Columbus, GA 31907.

Michael's service to the nation came in different forms. During the Vietnam War, he served his country for three years in the United States Army. His commendable service of 35 years with the Columbus Fire Department is equally deserving of our gratitude. In Michael's words, his position as a firefighter was never a job but a calling. He was dedicated and resilient, proving time and time again that courage is not the absence of fear but the ability to act in spite of it. His professional life bore witness to his bravery, tenacity, and undying commitment.

Away from the rigors of professional life, you could find Michael coaching baseball and softball, enjoying a peaceful day of hunting, fishing, or boating, or emerging victorious on the golf course. His competitive spirit was not confined to the field but extended to the boxing ring as well. An unwavering belief in discipline, determination, and sportsmanship grounded him.

Beyond his profession and hobbies, Michael cherished his roles as a loving husband to Sharon Johnston, a supportive father to Michelle Woodrow (Woody), Misty Johnston, Ernie Kirk, and Ashley Pace (Jeff), and a cherished grandfather to Hailey Trimmer (Andy), Preston Kirk (Taylor), Garrett Woodrow (Clarissa), Cole Peterson, Simone Marler, Blake Pace, Heather Corder (David), Kieron Graham, and Tyler Pace (Abby). Not to forget, he was a doting great-grandfather to six great-grandchildren and two more on the way.

Michael held a profound sense of joy, warmth, and wit that seeped into every encounter. He was not just loving, funny, and intelligent but also skillfully honed his innate talent of captivating audiences with his humanity and charisma. An ardent believer in the transformative power of sports, he imparted life-changing wisdom while coaching baseball and softball. The lessons learned on the field with Michael extended far beyond the game, serving as important life lessons for each of his players.

In the words of Maya Angelou, "People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” Michael not only embodied this concept but infused it into the lives of his family and friends, who will forever be motivated and inspired by his loving demeanor, his comedic nature, and the most wonderful hugs ever. His legacy will continue to live on through the many lives he touched and the immense love he left behind.

Michael, your life was not merely a series of dates from 1945 to 2023 but an epic tale worth repeating of a man who loved deeply, laughed heartily, and lived passionately. As we remember you and honor your memory, may your journey serve as a beacon inspiring us all to live life fully, to love without measure, and to leave an indelible mark on the world.

Here's to George Michael Johnston, a life beautifully lived and a soul profoundly missed. May his story continue to inspire us all.