Rose Mary Johnston
Obituary
JOHNSTON, Rose Mary (née Smith)…
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Rose Mary Johnston, who left us peacefully on March 5, 2025, in her 68th year.
Rose was predeceased by her loving parents, Reginald and Margaret Smith, as well as her cherished brothers, Rick, Tim, and Pat.
She is survived by her loving brother Randy and her three devoted sons, Jeffrey, Christopher (married to Gemma), and Steven (married to Sally), who brought her immeasurable joy and pride. As a grandmother, Rose adored her grandchildren-Sandra, Dakota, and Connor-and found immense delight in her role as a great-grandmother to Zennan, son of Sandra. Each of their smiles was a source of light in her life.
Rose shared a lifelong bond with her dearest friends, who became family to her. Among them were her closest companions, Pauline and Elaine, together forming an unbreakable trio known as the Three Musketeers. Their friendship was a cornerstone of her life, filled with laughter, unwavering support, and countless cherished memories.
Throughout her courageous battle with leukemia, Rose felt truly blessed by the love and strength of her tight-knit circle of girlfriends, including Karen, Vicky, and Nancy, as well as the fun-loving group known as the Cottage Girls-Charlene, Penny, Mary, and Rhonda. Their steadfast companionship provided her with comfort and the resilience to embrace life each day.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated staff and physicians at London Health Sciences Centre and St. Margaret’s Hospital in Toronto. Special thanks go to the transplant team, Dr. Xenacosta, Dr. Julia Mount (Hematology), and Dr. Malik (Palliative Care). Their unwavering support and belief in Rose from the very beginning were invaluable. We also wish to acknowledge the compassionate nurses who cared for her with kindness throughout her treatments and final days.
Rose was not only a devoted mother and grandmother but also a passionate sports enthusiast, cheering wholeheartedly for her favourite teams, the Toronto Maple Leafs and Toronto Blue Jays. Her spirited energy and unwavering loyalty were truly infectious, sparking lively discussions and camaraderie among those who shared her love for the games. She will be especially missed by Rick Page, who took great joy in exchanging game updates with her over text and sharing meaningful conversations while accompanying her to medical appointments.
She will also be fondly remembered by her teammates at Bad Boyz MMA, where she enthusiastically participated in the Train Like a Fighter classes. Under the guidance of Coach Hollis Huggins, Rose honed her skills in boxing, Muay Thai, and circuit training while increasing her confidence. Her dedication to fitness and camaraderie with her fellow fighters brought her immense joy and a sense of belonging.
An animal lover at heart, Rose leaves behind her cherished dog, Abby, and her beloved cat, Callie, who provided her with endless comfort and companionship.
Professionally, Rose dedicated 27 years of her career as an executive assistant at Physical Relief Caring Services, where she was an invaluable member of the administration team and a dear friend to many.
A celebration of Rose’s life will be held on Sunday, March 9, from 10:30 AM to 2:30 PM at the Palasad (Oxford Street & Adelaide Street North, London). All who knew and loved her are welcome to join in honouring her remarkable life and legacy.
In accordance with Rose’s wishes, a private family inurnment will be held early this summer at the mausoleum in St. Peter’s Cemetery, London.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Rose’s memory can be made to Arts4Animals (please note this is not a registered charity) or to a charity of your choice.
Rose will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving her. Her legacy of love, friendship, and resilience will continue to inspire those she leaves behind.
God Speed My Friend, until we meet again.
Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com
