Obituary of David Frederick Johnston

David Frederick Johnston

David Frederick Johnston, age 69, of Virginia Beach, VA, died unexpectedly Friday, August 11, 2023, at J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital in Morgantown, WV. He was born March 27, 1954, in Weston, WV, the son of the late James V. and Helen Shaver Markley. On May 17, 1980, he married Beth Hymes who survives. Also surviving are son, Spencer Johnston of Virginia Beach; special cousin, Don Markley and wife Becky of Weston; special friends, Bill and Molly Burkhammer of Jane Lew, WV; two brothers-in-law, Nick Hymes and wife Kathleen of Austin, TX and  Mark Hymes of Clarksburg, MD; three nieces, Sarah Hymes of New York City, NY, Laura Geissler and husband Andrew of Austin, TX and Kendall Hymes of Arlington, VA; one nephew, Connor Hymes of Arlington VA; aunt, June Audia of Reynoldsville, WV and several cousins.

Dave graduated with a degree in Electrical Engineering from WVU in 1976 and later earned his P.E. license. He also earned his Executive MBA from William & Mary.  He had a successful and diverse career in engineering, corporate management in telecommunications, and consulting.

Mr. Johnston was one of the first EMT’s for Weston’s EMS squad, which was founded by his parents. He was also a volunteer firefighter in Weston, an Eagle Scout and was active in Scouting in several positions for over 50 years. He was actively involved in numerous organizations, including the Baycliff Civic League and Francis Asbury UMC in Virginia Beach, was a founding member of the Mt. State Chapter of the BMW Car Club of America,  and past President of the Southern Virginia Parents Association for the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy while Spencer was in attendance from 2004-2008.

Dave was a loving husband and devoted father. He was a jack of all trades and master of many.  He was an avid private pilot, boater, gardener, and auto enthusiast.  He shared his passion and knowledge with those around him and particularly Spencer.

In honoring Mr. Johnston’s wishes he will be cremated. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.polingstclair.com. Poling-St. Clair Funeral Home is handling the arrangements. Celebration of his life will be at a future date in Virginia Beach, VA

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to a charity of your choice or the Weston Volunteer Fire Department.