V. Clay Johnston

Clay Johnston, 74, of Bedford passed away at Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital on Monday, August 28, 2017. He was born in Lynchburg, VA on June 22, 1943. He was a son of the late Charlie E. Johnston and Mary W. Johnston. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by a sister, Sandra L. Johnston.



Clay was a member of Trinity Ecumenical Parish in Moneta. He was an avid motorcyclist, accomplished woodworker, skilled sailor and outdoorsman. He graduated from Danville Technical Institute. He retired from Wiley and Wilson and Facility Dynamics Engineering. He enjoyed spending time with his family and friends.

Clay is survived by his loving wife, Sharon Kerr Johnston; two sons, Vernon Clay Johnston, Jr (Jay) of Rustburg and Lee Haley Johnston of Austin, TX; brother, David F. Johnston of Forest; Mother and Father-in-law, Virginia and John Kerr of Lynchburg; also several brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends. In addition to his family Clay is survived by his loving canine companion Chessie.

For those wishing to make memorial contributions in Clay’s memory please consider, The Salvation Army of Lynchburg, 2215 Park Ave, Lynchburg, VA 24501 or Trinity Ecumenical Parish, 40 Lakemount Dr., Moneta, VA 24121.

A private inurnment will be held Friday, September 1, 2017 at Quaker Memorial Presbyterian Church in Lynchburg. A memorial service and celebration of Clay’s life will be conducted at 10:30 am on Saturday, September 2, 2017 at Trinity Ecumenical Parish in Moneta. The family will receive friends for fellowship and visitation to follow the service. To send condolences online please visit obituaries.tharpfuneralhome.com. Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Bedford is assisting the family.