Oleta Sue Johnston

Oleta “Sue” Johnston was born in Seminole, Oklahoma, in 1934. She was united in marriage to Dean Johnston, with whom she shared 56 loving years. Sue was the daughter of Gladys (Jones Meekins) Fullen.

She is survived by her sisters, Trisha and Pete Clarke of Houston, Texas, and Carrol and Richard Cipra of Little Elm, Texas. She is also survived by her daughter, Becky Esau of Newton, Kansas; and her son, James Johnston, and his wife, Karla, of Hays, Kansas.

Sue was a proud grandmother to three grandsons and two granddaughters: Joshua Esau of Hutchinson, Kansas; Adam Esau and his wife, Kori, of Halstead, Kansas; and Christian Johnston of Overland Park, Kansas. Brianna Morton and her husband, Thomas, of England, and Kelsie Johnston of Manhattan, Kansas. Sue was further blessed with seven great-grandchildren, all of whom brought her great joy.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Dean Johnston; her mother, Gladys Fullen; and her son-in-law, Dwaine Esau.

Sue graduated from Florence High School in 1953. Throughout her life, she worked in a variety of positions in the Florence and Newton areas.

Bowling was one of Sue’s greatest passions, and she participated in the sport for more than 60 years. She also faithfully served as secretary for several bowling leagues over the years. Even in recent years, she continued to enjoy spending time at the bowling alley, visiting with friends and cheering on fellow bowlers.

Sue deeply loved her family and devoted many years to caring for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was an enthusiastic supporter of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren in all of their activities and accomplishments.

Sue will be remembered for her feisty spirit, outspoken nature, sassy, and vibrant personality. Above all, she will be remembered for the deep love and devotion she showed to her family and friends. She was always willing to lend a helping hand to those she loved and will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

She will have a visitation at Petersen funeral home on May 28 from 5-9 with family present from 5-6pm. A service will be at Petersen funeral home on May 29, 2026, at 10am with a graveside at Greenwood after the service.