Dorothy Davis Johnston

DOROTHY FREELON DAVIS JOHNSTON was born in Elizabeth, NJ on September 14, 1924. She was the third of four children, born to the union of Burnett Anderson Davis, Sr. and Nannie Holcombe Davis. She passed away into God’s heavenly kingdom on Monday, May 26, 2014 after a brief illness. Dorothy Johnston, fondly know as “Dot”, was mother, sister, aunt, neighbor and friend. An avid tennis player with the North End Tennis Club in the 40’s, 50’s and 60’s, she was ranked with her sister Nana in doubles with the American Tennis Association (ATA). Also, an avid seamstress, Dot could make a new outfit for any occasion and embellish her new outfit with her trademark “D”. Fashion forward, she was ahead of her time. Dorothy attended Elizabeth Public Schools and graduated from Battin High School in 1943. After high school, she attended Newark State Teachers College (now Kean University) earning her degree in education in 1947. She loved to teach, interact and engage with young children. She taught for many years as a kindergarten teacher in the Baltimore City Public School System, retiring after 50 years of dedicated service. Dorothy was formerly married to the late Cecil Johnston, Sr. of Baltimore, Maryland and from that union one son was born, Cecil Gilmore Johnston, Jr. Dorothy left Elizabeth with her husband to reside in Baltimore, MD and to raise her beloved son Cecil. Her family worshipped at St. Andrews Episcopal Church. She loved Baltimore, but always looked forward to return visits to New Jersey to share time with family, especially during the summer and at Thanksgiving. In Baltimore, where she would remain until her passing, Dot became a Baltimore socialite. She was a member of the Epicureans in New Jersey, and joined the Moles, the Chipperettes, Art Unlimited and the Modern Mothers while in Baltimore. She would state proudly that she had a “club meeting” to attend. She had many friends, including close friends ties with the Beckham and Stubbs families. She greatly enjoyed going with her friends on church bus rides to the casinos in Atlantic City. She also enjoyed playing cards and was a member of several card clubs. Although tiny in stature, Dorothy Davis Johnston was a mighty woman with a wonderful smile. She would light up any room and always spoke her mind. She will be remembered for her generosity to her family and friends. She leaves to cherish her memory: her son, Cecil Johnston, Jr.; her brother, Burnett A. Davis, Jr. of Elizabeth; her godchild, Weslie Susan Robinson; and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews, extended family members, life-long and beloved friends. She was predeceased by: her sisters, Audrey Wyatt (Jerry) and Nana Vaughn; and her sister-in-law, Barbara Davis. Her heart was big and she blessed each of us in special ways. She will live forever in our hearts and memories. Rest in peace, Dorothy.

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Dorothy Davis Johnston

September 14, 1924 - May 26, 2014