Helen May Hicks Johnston

Helen May Hicks Johnston, 93, of Salem, left this earthly home to join loved ones in her heavenly home on Monday, February 24, 2014. Helen was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Douglas Pershing Johnston; and her grandson, Mark Douglas Ward. Helen leaves behind a large and loving family who will miss her dearly, but are rejoicing in her reunion with Doug and her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Helen is survived by her two children, Jerry and wife, Mary, and Brenda and husband, Doug; her five grandchildren, Matt (Dianne) Ward, Mike (Annette) Ward, Melonee Topping, Steven (Lori) Johnston, and Greg (Jessica) Johnston; her ten great-grandchildren, Josh (Heather) Ward, Rachel Ward, Alicia Mann, Allyson Topping, Jacob Ward, Deanna Ward, Ryan Milbourn, Byron Johnston, Caitlin Johnston, and Hunter Johnston; and her three great-great-grandsons, Davis, Bentley, and Lincoln Ward. In addition, Helen leaves behind her youngest brother, Paul Hicks and wife, Elizabeth; and numerous caring and loving nieces and nephews. Helen is also blessed with countless faithful friends who are loving members of the family. Helen led an adventurous life that was filled with opportunities to share her love of God and the beautiful outdoors. Helen loved camping across the country with her family and spent countless hours hiking and admiring Gods creation among the wildflowers. Helen also enjoyed trips to California and Hawaii with Jerry and Mary as well as Brenda and Doug. Helen often told her pastor that when they were all together, it was heaven on earth if you can have heaven here. She thanked God for all the good times they had spent together. Helens constant hope and prayer was that others would come to know God the way that she had. The family wishes to sincerely thank the loving staff at Snyder Nursing Home for treating them like family. You are truly a blessing to us and a staff of angels. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting a loving memorial donation to the Snyder Nursing Home Activity Department or Bethel Baptist Food Pantry to honor Helens generous heart and love for others. A period of visitation will be held on Wednesday, February 26, 2014 from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. in the John M. Oakey & Son Funeral Home in Salem. A funeral service will then be held on Thursday, February 27, 2014 at 2 p.m. in the funeral homes chapel with the Reverend Jack Richards, Jr. officiating. Interment will follow immediately at Cedar Lawn Burial Park. An online guestbook is available by visiting www.johnmoakey.com. The Johnston family is being served by John M. Oakey & Son Funeral Home in Salem, 540-389-5441.