Charles Edward Johnston, longtime resident of Grainola, passed Wednesday, July 31, 2013 in Stillwater, at the home of his daughter. He was 92 years of age.  

Charles was born September 16, 1920 in Grainola, the son of Charles Jefferson Johnston and Awilda Cecil (Bowhay) Johnston. He was a 1939 graduate of Grainola High School. He furthered his education at Oklahoma A&M College as an aeronautical engineer. He was married to Velva Colleen “Sis” Nix on March 7, 1942 in Ponca City. He was employed 36 years with Conoco, retiring at age 62. After retirement Charles and Velva built their home in Grainola where thy farmed and ranched.  

Charles was a longtime member of the Grainola Methodist Church. He was very active with the town of Grainola, having served as mayor for 8 years, retiring at age 90, and serving as fire chief for 3 years, retiring at age 91. He also looked over the town’s finances. His enjoyments included watching westerns, working with cattle and farming, fishing, hunting and tailgating at Oklahoma State football games.  

He is survived by his daughter, Helen Burns and husband Lester, of Stillwater; three brothers, Dick Johnston and wife June, Willard Johnston and wife Nelda, and Marion Johnston; eight grandchildren, Lori Davidson and husband Kent, Stacie McConnell, Kay Thompson, Darrell Hawkins and wife Michelle, Billy Sebrant and wife Tammy, Charles Sebrant, Kim Mayhall and Thad Burns; 26 great grandchildren and 11 great great grandchildren; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other extended family and friends.  

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife Velva; one daughter, Charlene Sebrant; three brothers, Lee Johnston, Glenn Johnston and Cloise Johnston; two sisters, Evelyn Littau and Elsie Holmes.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Monday, August 5, 2013 at the Shidler United Methodist Church. Burial will follow in Resthaven Memorial Park in Ponca City. Arrangements are under the direction of Grace Memorial Chapel.  

Casket bearers are Charles Sebrant, Chance Thompson, Darrell Hawkins, Bryan Carleton, Bill Sebrant and Sean Carleton. Honorary casket bearers are Paul Anson, Jack Anson, John Anson, Dee Johnston, Brian Johnston and Michael Johnston.  

Memorial contributions may be made to Relay for Life, c/o American Cancer Society, 6525 N. Meridian, Suite 110, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73116.