James “Jim” UL Johnston Jr., 84, of Stillwater, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully at home on July 10th, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Jim was born on October 27th, 1941, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, to James UL and Leota Augusta (James) Johnston. He graduated from Tulsa Central High School in 1959 and from Oklahoma State University in 1963 with a bachelor’s degree in Aviation Science. After graduation, he honorably served as a Captain in the United States Air Force, flying from October 1963 to July 1969. Jim loved to fly, especially in his T-38 at Mach 1, occasionally sharing stories of soaring supersonic straight up! During his military service, he flew the Douglas C-124 Globemaster in a combat environment throughout Vietnam, transporting equipment into the region and returning home on “Angel Flight” missions, bringing home fallen service members. He was stationed at Vance Air Force Base in Enid, Oklahoma; Hunter Air Force Base in Savannah, Georgia; and Hickam Air Force Base in Oahu, Hawaii. Jim earned many distinctions during his service, most notably the Air Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with two Bronze Service Stars, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, Combat Readiness Medal, Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon, and the National Defense Service Medal. Following his military service, Jim was recruited by United Airlines in Chicago, Illinois, where he proudly flew “The Friendly Skies” from 1969 until his retirement in 1983. During his time with United, he flew the DC-8, DC-10, 727, and 737. After retirement, Jim obtained his real estate license and went on to buy and sell real estate, as well as countless classic and exotic cars. He lived an exciting life and enjoyed it to the fullest!

Jim married Sandra C. Hunter in 1963, and together they were blessed with two children, Kimbrely Renee and James Matthew. In June 1976, he married Cynthia K. Hostutler, and together they were blessed with two children, James Michael and Laura Lee.

Jim had a wide range of interests and hobbies that reflected his curiosity, skill, and love of life. He especially enjoyed carpentry, metal detecting, cheering on the Chicago Cubs, and following Oklahoma State University sports.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 50 years, Cynthia Johnston; his daughter, Kimbrely and Robbie Hooper; his son, James Matthew and Melissa Johnston; his son, James Michael Johnston; and his daughter, Laura and Brett Emerson; his grandchildren, Megan Spears, Philip Hooper, Tatum Johnston, Miles Johnston, Sam Kelly, and Ryan Emerson; his great-grandchildren, Jaycee Spears and Piper Spears; his brothers, Jerry Johnston and Larry and Molly Johnston; and his sister, Linda and Tom Bailey. He was preceded in death by his parents and his granddaughter, Zoe Kelly.

Above all, Jim lived his life as a follower of Christ and faithfully demonstrated the Fruits of the Spirit in his daily walk with the Lord; he always treated those he encountered with love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. He loved his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and his church family.

Jim was a happy, humble, and positive man, always seen wearing a pleasant smile. He was well-liked in the community and an honest businessman. He will be remembered for his love of country, devotion to family, his adventurous spirit, and the many stories, skills, and traditions he shared with those he loved. His legacy will live on in the hearts of his family and friends, who will cherish his memory always.

James “Jim” UL Johnston Jr. has been laid to rest at Fort Gibson National Cemetery, Fort Gibson, Oklahoma.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Countryside Church, 2124 S. Western Rd., Stillwater, OK 74074.