Martha Kay Johnston

Martha Kay Cantrell Johnston was born November 7, 1945, to Emma and L.F. "Vern" Cantrell, and entered Heaven’s Gates on September 6, 2025.

At the age of five, Martha’s family moved to Lindsay, where they owned and operated a small grocery store south of town on Highway 76. Martha loved being at the store because it gave her a chance to meet and visit with people. Her father even let her sell candy to the children at half price - her first experience with earning money.

Martha loved school and attended all her grade school, junior high, and high school years in Lindsay. She later continued her education earning her bachelor’s degree from USAO and her master’s degree from OU. Martha went on to teach for many years in the Lindsay School System, where she impacted countless students. She had a special gift for helping those who struggled, especially in math, and delighted in seeing the light of understanding in her students' eyes when they mastered a new concept.

In 1964, Martha married Everett Norman Johnston, Jr. Together, they were blessed with three sons: Michael, Bryan, and Darin. The family grew to include 13 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren, all of whom were dearly treasured.

Faith was central to Martha's life. She was baptized at the age of nine and spent over 60 years as a faithful member of Missionary Baptist Church. Later, she and Everett joined Erin Springs Baptist Church, where they also found love, fellowship, and spiritual growth. Martha often reminded others, "Just lean on Him. He will see us through."

God carried Martha through many trials, including illness and Covid-19. Through it all, she leaned on her faith and inspired others with her strength and trust in the Lord.

Martha loved to sing, and play the piano, and spend time with friends. Whether playing Bunco or enjoying trips to the lake, her friends provided her with love and encouragement throughout her life. As the years went by and loved ones passed on, Martha often said, "Heaven gets sweeter every day. I'll meet you there, and we'll have a wonderful time with our Savior, Lord, and loved ones."

Martha's life touched many, and she will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her.

She is survived by her sons: Michael Johnston and wife Sheree of Lindsay, Oklahoma; Bryan Johnston and wife Kalisa of Norman, Oklahoma; and Darin Johnston and wife Kim of Bradley, Oklahoma; 13 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Martha was preceded in death by her parents L.F. "Vern" Cantrell and Emma Robbins Cantrell; her husband, Everett Johnston, Jr.; and her brother, Bob Cantrell.

Funeral Services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, September 11, 2025, at Erin Springs Baptist Church in Lindsay, Oklahoma with Bro. Clay Hicks officiating. Burial will follow at Purdy Cemetery under the direction of John W. Williams of Winans Funeral Home in Maysville, Oklahoma. Words of comfort may be sent to the family on this website.