Shirley Mae Johnston

MADISON Shirley Mae Johnston, 80, passed away on Tuesday, Aug. 8, 2017 at St. Marys Hospital in Madison. Shirley was born June 27, 1937 in Marinette, Wis., to Edward and Margaret (Malmstead) Matz. She was the oldest of six siblings, three sisters, Gerral, Anita and Paula; and two brothers, Richard and James. She married James Johnston in Marinette on Sept. 7, 1957. Shirley was an amazing achiever all her life, class valedictorian in high school, and then receiving her doctorate in Microbiology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She was employed at Wisconsin State Lab of Hygiene for over 30 years, where she also did some teaching. Shirley and Jim lived in Madison and had two children, Jason and Heidi. Shirley was an incredible gardener. People driving by their home would stop and ask for a tour of her beautiful gardens and she proudly obliged them. She loved to bake and was always involved in a number of crafts. She also loved spending time with her two grandchildren, Landy and Chanelle. After retirement, Jim and Shirley were snowbirds in the winter months to Alamo, Texas, where she lived for a while in her childhood as her father was stationed there while in the service. The last years of her life, Shirley lived in the memory care unit at Heritage Monona where she was loved by all and many of them saying how much they will miss her sassy but kind personality. Shirley is survived by her son, Jason Johnston of Madison; daughter, Heidi (Derrick) Jennings of Fall River; grandchildren, Landy and Chanelle; great-grandson, Landy, Jr.; brothers, James (Kay) Matz of Stoughton and Richard Matz of Marinette; sister, Paula (Keith) Miller of Minneapolis; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. She was preceded in death by her husband; parents; and sisters, Gerral and Anita. The family will be having a celebration of Shirleys life on Sunday, Aug. 27, 2017 starting at 2 p.m. at Heidis house, 155 Lazy Lake Dr., Fall River. Relatives and friends are encouraged to come celebrate Shirleys life, share stories, visit and eat! Forever in our hearts, thankful for our memories and thankful for all the lives you touched. All Faiths Funeral & Cremation Services Madison (608)442-0477 www.866allfaiths.com