Cathy Anne Johnston

Cathy Springer Johnston, 64, passed away on February 12, 2024 at her beloved home in Laughlintown after the most courageous battle with cancer. She was the loving wife of James (Jim) W. Johnston for 45 years.

Born and raised in Ligonier, she was the daughter of Gene Springer and the late Beverly (Grote) Springer. She graduated from Ligonier Valley High School in 1977, and later followed her passion for detail and love of all creatures great and small, which led to a 25-year long career with the Loyalhanna Watershed Association. A staple of LWA, her commitment to the organization’s conservation mission and her dedication to all things “behind-the-scenes,” will have a lasting impact for many years to come.

Cathy was deeply devoted to her husband and family. She sought every opportunity to gather together, cherishing each moment by sharing old traditions and making new memories, each of which was precious to her and often reflected in her vibrant stories. She embodied the qualities of unconditional love, fierce devotion, strength of spirit, benevolence and generosity, that could be seen in her care of her family, friends, colleagues and countless others.

In addition to her husband Jim, she is survived by her two sons, Jansen (Jenn) Johnston and Tim Johnston; favorite grandsons, Phaelan and Sawyer Johnston; older brothers, Richard Springer and Jay (Candy) Springer; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. She was preceded in death by her sister-in-law, Paula Springer.

Family and friends are invited to remember Cathy at a memorial service planned for Saturday, March 2, 2024 at the Epiphany Church of Ligonier beginning at 1:00; 135 Kalassay Drive, Ligonier. Meal and fellowship to follow.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers or gifts, memorial contributions may be made in Cathy’s name to the Loyalhanna Watershed Association, 6 Old Lincoln Highway West, Ligonier, PA 15658. The Association plans to honor her legacy by sharing the view from the farm’s hillside that she loved so much, through a new outdoor project.

Online condolences may be made to www.mccabefuneralhomespa.com.