Ret. CMSGT Patrick H. Johnston III, known to family and friends as Rick, passed away on July 1, 2026, in San Antonio, Texas, after a lengthy illness, leaving behind a legacy of faith, service, love, and devotion that will be cherished forever.

Rick was born on June 15, 1959, in Millen, Georgia, and he carried the values of his hometown with him throughout his life. He was a man of strong character, quiet strength, and steadfast faith. Those who knew him best remember him as intelligent, loving, and thoughtful, a man who cared deeply for others and who lived his life with humility and purpose. His Christian faith was an important part of who he was, and it guided the way he treated his family, his friends, his coworkers, and all who had the blessing of knowing him.

Rick graduated from Jenkins County High School and continued to build upon his education throughout his life. While serving his country in the United States Air Force, he earned two associate degrees, demonstrating both his determination and his commitment to growth. He believed in hard work, discipline, and doing the best he could in every role he was given. His life reflected a deep sense of duty and perseverance, and he was an example of what it means to serve with honor.

Rick spent 28 years in the United States Air Force and retired as a Chief Master Sergeant. His military career was a source of great pride, not because of rank alone, but because of the opportunity to serve his country with dedication and integrity. He earned the respect of those who served alongside him through his leadership, his wisdom, and his steady presence. After retiring from the Air Force, he later retired again as an Engineer with SRC. In every season of his working life, he was known for his professionalism, his intelligence, and his dependable nature.

Above all else, Rick was a devoted family man. He is survived by his loving wife, Phyllis, affectionately known as Bunny Johnston, who shared his life with love and faith. He also leaves behind his daughter, April Garcia, and her husband Pete, who will forever treasure his love and guidance. His grandchildren, Lily, Alex, Elena, and Layla, were a source of great joy in his life, and he delighted in spending time with them. He is also survived by his mother, Edrenelle Johnston, and by his sisters, Vicky Cook and her husband Roy, Micky Oglesby and her husband Billy, Kiki Conway and her husband Eddie, and Christy Walker and her husband Bobby, as well as his brothers, Nicky Johnston and Dicky Johnston and his wife Melissa. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews who will remember his kindness, his gentle spirit, and the love he showed to his extended family.

Rick enjoyed simple pleasures that brought him happiness, especially playing golf and spending time playing with his grandchildren. These moments reflected the warmth of his heart and the joy he found in being with those he loved. He understood that life's greatest blessings are often found in the everyday moments shared with family and in the laughter of children. His presence brought comfort, and his love created memories that will remain in the hearts of his loved ones for years to come.

Though his passing leaves a deep void, those who mourn him take comfort in the promise of eternal life and in the hope found through faith in Christ. Rick's life was a testimony to service, devotion, and love. He will be remembered not only for what he accomplished, but for the way he lived, with dignity, kindness, and a heart rooted in faith. May he rest in peace, and may his family be sustained by the grace of God and the many cherished memories they hold dear.

Graveside services will be held at 11:00 AM Thursday, July 16, 2026 at Millen Cemetery. There will be a visitation prior to the service from 9:30 - 10:30 AM at Crowe-Fields Funeral Home.