James Ellis Johnston

James Ellis Johnston passed away on March 4, 2025, in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He was born on September 30, 1957, in Hastings, Michigan, the son of Ellis Holmes Johnston and Alice Lorraine (Layle) Strimback.

Jim attended Lakewood High School. His love for learning and his determination led him to further his education at Huntington College. Despite his developmental disabilities, Jim's resilience and strength of character shone brightly throughout his life.

In his professional journey, Jim demonstrated remarkable adaptability and a commendable work ethic. He found joy and purpose in various roles, from assisting customers at the local grocery store to bringing smiles to moviegoers at the theater. He also assisted at a preschool, where his kindness and gentle manner made a lasting impact on the young lives he touched.

Jim was an amazing and wonderful man who, despite his challenges, left a positive mark on many. His kind and gentle nature was not just a personal trait, but a gift he shared generously with the world around him. Jim's ability to remain polite and considerate, even in the face of adversity, was a testament to his character.

Jim is preceded in death by his parents, brother Durwood Birman, and nephew Patrick Strimback.

He is survived by his siblings Beverly McClintock, Kathy Hoffman, Diane Smith, and Durwin "Curly" Birman, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

The family would especially like to thank the staff at Hope Network at both River Valley and Breton Valley facilities.

Visitation will be held on Monday, March 10, 2025, at 11:00 AM with a funeral service to follow at Noon at Hastings Free Methodist Church, 2635 M-43, Hastings, MI 49058, Pastor Brian Teed officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Hope Network, One Hope Network Center, PO Box 890, Grand Rapids, MI 49546, or online at https://hopenetwork.org/foundation/give. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. To leave an online condolence visit www.girrbachfuneralhome.net.