Esther Stirling Johnston

CAPE ELIZABETH – Esther Stirling Johnston, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, of Cape Elizabeth and Fort Myers Fla., passed away peacefully June 2, 2025, in Fort Myers, Fla. Born on March 11, 1939, in Pawtucket, RI, she was the cherished daughter of James and Agnes Stirling.

A graduate of Pawtucket West High School, Esther went on to earn her nursing degree from The New England Baptist Hospital School of Nursing in Boston, Mass., becoming a Registered Nurse. She later joined her husband in the family flooring business in Portland, Maine, where she pursued her passion for design as an interior decorator.

Esther spent her early married years in Cape Elizabeth where she was an active member of the Junior League of Portland and the Purpoodock Golf Club. Her strong faith was a cornerstone of her life—she was a devoted member of Spring Hill Gospel Church and later, the First Baptist Church of Portland. In Florida, she worshipped at the First Baptist Church of Naples.

Esther is lovingly remembered by her husband of 65 years, David Johnston of Fort Myers, Fla.; her sons Jeffrey and his wife Kelly of Scarborough, Maine and Fort Myers, and Jon and his wife Claudine of Fort Myers. She is also survived by five grandchildren and two great-granddaughters, all of whom brought her immense joy.

A private funeral service was held in her honor in Fort Myers, Fla. Esther’s warmth, grace, and unwavering devotion to family and faith will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.