William “Will” H. Johnston

POWNAL – William “Will” H. Johnston, a long-time resident of Pownal passed away on June 3, 2025. A father, husband, musician, community planner, history buff and friend — we will remember his humor and dedication to those he loved.

Will was born in Greenwich, Conn., on Dec. 3, 1954, the son of John Lord and Miriam Lary Johnston. He attended St. Lawrence University, earning a B.A. in History and Colgate University where he received a master’s in Education. Will excelled in track and football in his youth and as an adult enjoyed hiking, cross country skiing, body surfing and growing corn.

He met his wife Rosita Moore while hiking Katahdin and they married in Biddeford Pool on a beautiful June day in 1997. They settled in an 1830s farmhouse in Pownal near Bradbury Mountain State Park, where they embarked on ongoing home and land improvement projects. He found the greatest joy in being a father, reveling in his children, Lily and Finn, who were the lights of his life.

He spent his career as a community planner and program manager for various organizations, including the Greater Portland Council of Governments, Maine Department of Conservation, State Planning Office, Muskie School and Town of New Gloucester.

A talented writer, Will served as editor for the Greater Portland Landmarks Observer and Portland Evening Star. He also edited a book of recollections in memory of cousin and 4th generation Gorham dairy farmer, Hubbard Wilson, of which he was especially proud. Although technically “from away,” he felt a deep connection to his Maine roots. Throughout his career, Will found common ground with those around him to strengthen communities and preserve environmental integrity.

Will loved music – the Beatles, Hank Williams, and Joni Mitchell – and played guitar and clawhammer banjo. He was famous for the original song parodies he wrote in commemoration of birthdays, anniversaries and weddings, and performed with his family. He had a quick wit and knack for remembering trivia, especially TV theme songs and advertising jingles from the 1960s.

Will was an avid reader with a wide range of interests and delighted in testing his encyclopedic knowledge while watching Jeopardy. A keen observer of p olitics, he was deeply troubled by the current polarization of our society.

Will was predeceased by his parents, John “Bud” Johnston and Miriam Johnston of Gorham.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Rosita Moore; and cherished children Lily Moore Johnston and Finn Johnston. He is also survived by his loving siblings, Sarah Johnston (John Desrochers) and David Johnston; his amazing niece, Elizabeth Koors, as well as her two children Ellie and James; and numerous cousins of different generations. He also held dear his wife’s siblings and their families. He was blessed with many wonderful friends throughout his life and “the best dog ever,” Porro.

We will think of him when listening to the Red Sox on the radio, eating a perfect ear of Silver Queen corn, or singing along to the chorus of Fox on the Run.

A memorial service will be held later this summer.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to NAMI Maine (National Alliance on Mental Health).