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Mr. Winfield C.
Johnston, Sr.
Jul 7, 1939 — Jun 5, 2026
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the Homegoing Celebration honoring the life and legacy of our beloved father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend Mr. Winfield C. Johnston Sr.
Mr. Winfield C. Johnston Sr., age 86, was born on July 7, 1939, in the Lincoln Heights community of Roanoke Rapids, Halifax County, North Carolina. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend whose life was defined by faith, service, integrity, and love for family.
He was married to his beloved wife, Willine Johnston, for 50 years until her passing in April 2016. Together, they built a beautiful life and were blessed with two children, Winfield C. Johnston Jr. and Tahira (Ty) Johnston-Chavis.
In January 1962, Winfield proudly enlisted in the United States Navy and honorably served his country as a veteran during the Vietnam era. Stationed in San Diego, California, he had the opportunity to travel throughout South America and various parts of the world during his military service. Among the destinations he fondly spoke of were Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Laos; Chile; Vietnam; and Okinawa, Japan. His travels broadened his perspective, enriched his life experiences, and provided him with stories and memories that he enjoyed sharing with family and friends for years to come.
A dedicated professional, Winfield retired from General Motors in Bristol, Connecticut, in 1987 after years of faithful service. He later continued his career with the Chatham County Sheriff Department in Savannah, Georgia, serving as an investigator for child support recovery until his retirement in 2002. Throughout his working years, he was respected for his strong work ethic, professionalism, and commitment to serving others.
His faith was the cornerstone of his life. For 28 years, he faithfully served as a Steward and Chief Financial Officer of St. Paul CME Church in Savannah, Georgia. His dedication to the church, its members, and its mission left a lasting impact on the congregation and community he loved so dearly.
In December 2018, Winfield relocated to Atlanta, Georgia, where he resided with his daughter and her family. During this chapter of life, he found great joy in spending time with his children and grandchildren, traveling, sharing stories, and creating cherished memories with those he loved most.
Known for his quiet strength, wisdom, generosity, and unwavering devotion to family, Winfield touched countless lives through his kindness and his daily message: “It’s a beautiful day, today”. His legacy lives on through the values he instilled, the lives he impacted, and the love he shared so freely.
He is survived by his son, Winfield C. Johnston Jr.; his daughter, Tahira (Ty)Johnston-Chavis; his brother, Robert Johnston of Virginia; his loving grandchildren, Kennedy Johnston, Raegan Johnston, Carston Johnston, Karis Harper, Kyler Chavis, and Kruz Chavis; his daughter-in-law, Sharon Ragland-Johnston; his son-in-law, Kel Chavis; and a host of extended family members, church family, and devoted friends.
We celebrate his life with gratitude and honor the lasting imprint he leaves on all who were blessed to know him. His memory will forever remain in our hearts.
“Well done, good and faithful servant”. — Matthew 25:23
*Viewing & Visitation
Campbell & Sons Funeral Home, Inc.
2520 Bonaventure Road
Savannah, GA 31404
Thursday, June 11, 2026
5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Please send all floral arrangements to the funeral home.
In addition to your prayers and presence, expressions of sympathy, floral arrangements, and monetary gifts are gratefully appreciated. Monetary gifts may be sent in request via text to Ty Johnston-Chavis @ 954.668.8585
*Funeral Service (Family, Friends & Loved Ones Welcome)
St. Paul CME Church
1601 Barnard Street
Savannah, GA 31401
Friday, June 12, 2026
10:00 AM
*Burial Service & Repast, Following Funeral & Repass @ Charlton Grove Baptist Church Cemetery (Family Cemetery)
1210 Charlton Grove Church Road
Collins, GA 30421
We are deeply grateful for your prayers, love, and support during this time as we honor his memory, celebrate a life well lived, and cherish a legacy that will forever remain in our hearts.
The Johnston Family
Thursday
Campbell & Sons Funeral Home, Inc.
5:00 - 8:00 pm (Eastern time)
Friday
St. Paul CME Church
Starts at 10:00 am (Eastern time)
Visits: 618
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