Obituary of Grant Johnston

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our father, Gwyllym Grant Johnston, on November 2nd, 2025, in Bridgewater, Nova Scotia at the age of 84.

Grant is survived by his wife Patsy Johnston (née Ramey); his children Tara-Lynn Hughes and Tyler Johnston; grandchildren Logan & Alexa Hughes; and his brother David Johnston, & sister, Susan Armstrong; as well as a large extended family.

Grant was born in Quebec City on April 14, 1941. He attended Bishop’s College School where he made headlines as a star athlete and elite track and field runner. Fluent in English and French, Grant spent 8 years as a reporter for the Chronicle Telegraph in Quebec, the Daily Press in Timmins, and The Gazette in Montreal. And for 27 years, he worked for the federal public service in Ottawa where, among many things, he wrote government policy and speeches for ministers at the Treasury Board.

Grant had three collections of poetry published — “A Compass of Open Veins” in 1970

followed by “Mirrors on Uncertain Mornings” in 1988, and “With Gratitude” in 2016. His passion for creative writing was rivalled only by his passion for long distance ocean swimming. Nova Scotia’s Cherry Hill beach, LaHave islands and Whitepoint beach all held special places in his heart.

Grant was a gentle and kind person; a man of few words; and someone with a terrific sense of humour who thoroughly enjoyed a good prank. We hope his spirit is now free, enjoying the Atlantic Ocean he loved so much. There are many who will greatly miss his steadfast and thoughtful presence. Be free and be at peace.

A celebration of life will be held 11am, Monday December 1st, 2025, at St. Mary's Anglican Church, Crousetown. Rev. Alvin Westgate officiating. For those who would like to make a donation in Grant’s memory, the family is recommending support for the Council of Canadians (canadians.org). 

Arrangements entrusted to Sweeny’s Funeral Home, 35 York Street Bridgewater, where online condolences may be left at www.sweenysfuneralhome.com