Emily Elizabeth Johnston

Emily Elizabeth Johnston (nee McElroy) age 90 of Schererville Indiana passed away Monday November 8, 2021.  Emily was born on June 4, 1931 to Janet (Findlay) and Harry McElroy in Montclair, NJ where she spent her childhood.  She was the second eldest with six siblings: four brothers and two sisters.  Emily married Thomas J Johnston Jr in May 1960.  Before starting a family, she worked at Hardware Mutual Insurance Company in Newark, NJ.  Emily was the much beloved mother of daughter Elaine (Johnston) McCracken and son Thomas (Gayle) Johnston.  She was the cherished Nana to granddaughter Alyssa Johnston.

Emily lived with her family in Ramsey, NJ and Fairview Park, OH before settling in NW Indiana.  Emily was employed by Calumet National Bank at the Dyer branch for 20 years.  Morning was her favorite time of day.  She loved nature and flowers, and was an avid gardener.  She also enjoyed, knitting, crocheting, sewing, attending yoga classes, spending time with her many friends, and taking care of her family.  Emily was an excellent cook and read extensively.  Many hours were spent with family around the dining room table, discussing books, recipes and family memories.  Emily was a terrific listener, had a contagious smile, gave great hugs and was loved by all who knew her.  She was an active member of Our Lady of Consolation Church, Schererville Garden Club, and The Lake County Extension Homemakers.

Per Emily’s wishes, she will be cremated and buried in Calumet Park Cemetery next to her beloved husband of 53 years, Thomas.  The family will have a memorial service to celebrate her life at a later date to be determined.  In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Emily’s memory to: Purdue Lake County Extension Homemakers (2293 N Main Street, Crown Point, IN 46307); The Michael J Fox Foundation For Parkinson’s Research (https://michaeljfox.org/donate, 1-800-708-7644, or Donation Processing, The Michael J. Fox Foundation, P.O. Box 2014, Hagerstown, MD 21741-5014; a local library; or a charity of your choice.