Michael Johnston lost his life in the line of duty when he lost control of the water tanker truck he was driving while answering a call for a brush fire on October 18, 2019. Michael Johnston was a volunteer firefighter with the Equality Volunteer Fire Department. He lost his life serving the residents of Coosa County.
Born March 31, 1974, in Tallassee, Alabama, Michael learned very early how hard work and dedication would pay off. Michael was a very hard worker, and in high school he was a star athlete in football. Michael never met a stranger and was liked by everyone in high school.
Michael left behind children and a wife he adored. Michael had three sons and two stepdaughters. He also had a niece that he loved and treated like his own daughter due to her mother passing away five years ago. Michael was a diesel mechanic by trade and very talented with his hands; he could build anything. Michael was a good, down to earth, simple man. He loved his family. Michael loved to cook and loved having family get togethers. Michael always tried to help anyone he could, and he died trying to help his community.
Michael (Peanut) Even though you were my nephew, I Loved you like one of my own sons and miss you very much. Tell all those in heaven with you, I look forward to meeting everyone one day. Love Aunt Sherrie (Mam-Moo)
– Sherrie LedbetterMichael is a true HERO!! He will never be forgotten by his FireFighter Family
– LISA HOPMANThis was the best father a boy could ever ask for. I am so thankful to have had him as my dad, for he taught me everything from how to cook all the way to working on vehicles. He also taught me that life is something that you can never take for granted and you have to live it to your fullest. I am proud to be his son and proud to have a father who put his life on the line to help the community. You will forever be missed and loved dearly. ❤️
– Tyler M JohnstonI want to say that Michael had a hard life growing up and he learned as much as he could . He loved his family and when his dad passed he would always go to my dad for advice, he was like another child in our family. We kept in touch and he was so upset when my dad died. He was a living kind of person always trying to help someone. Taken too soon from this earth, God needed him more. He loved all his family, especially his mom and kids.
– Tammy Connell JohnsonHey Peanut. It’s your earthly birthday and I find myself reminiscing the old days of playing football at family reunions and all the fun we all had together growing up. It’s still surreal that you’re gone but I know you’re watching over us all. You’re missed and loved by so many. Give my love to all our family up there. Until we meet again, hugs Cousin.
– Wendy Osborne