Barbara Ann Johnston, 81, of Pevely, formerly of Crystal City, died June 27, 2019, at Festus Manor Nursing Center in Festus. Mrs. Johnston was a member of New Testament Baptist Church in Festus and was a Sunday School teacher for more than 30 years. She was a 1956 graduate of Crystal City High School and a 1959 graduate of Southeast Missouri State University with a degree in education. After she retired from teaching, she worked in the Missouri state government and then later returned to her hometown, where she eventually retired from the Bi-State Development agency. She enjoyed writing novels, working puzzles and spending time with her grandchildren. Born May 25, 1938, in Crystal City, she was the daughter of the late Chesley Leo and Barbara Lydia (Fast) Sims. She was preceded in death by her husband of 53 years: Dale Arthur Johnston.
She is survived by a daughter: Jill (Andrew) Orlando of Pevely; two grandchildren: Taylor (Jacob) Massa of Crystal City and Morgan (Kenyon) Klousia of St. Louis; and two great-grandchildren: Luca and Lena Massa of Crystal City.
She was preceded in death by a son: former Crystal City mayor Grant Sims Johnston.
Funeral services were private. Memorials may be made to Helping Hands Backpack Program for Crystal City Students; 1100 Mississippi Ave, Crystal City, 63019. Arrangements were under the direction of Mahn Twin City Chapel in Festus.