PORTLAND — James S. Johnston, 66, of Bryant Pond, passed away Sunday, June 24, at Maine Medical Center in Portland.

He was born Aug. 3, 1951, in Lynn, Mass., a son of, William J. and Grace A. (Cameron) Johnston. He attended Lynn, Mass., schools, graduating from Classical High School.

Before moving to Maine and settling in Bryant Pond in 1985, he worked his way up to a manager’s position at a local automobile dealership after having studied at the General Motors Institute. In Maine, he began logging before getting back “into the garage” doing radiator repair. That garage became Johnston’s Auto & Radiator, and he eventually grew the business to include neighboring, Allen’s Auto Sales in Norway.

James enjoyed collecting firearms, riding his motorcycle, tinkering in his garage at home and the company of his dogs, but his greatest pleasure came in the form of time spent with his family going camping, trying new things and especially teaching the grandchildren all that he could on life.

Jim will be remembered for his huge heart and as a beloved member of the community, who would do what he could to help someone in need.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Michelle, of Bryant Pond, whom he married June 21, 2013, at their home in Bryant Pond; his two sons Jeff Johnston and his wife, Jenni, of Greenwood, and Kevin Johnston and his wife, Amber, of Oxford; a stepdaughter, Kimberly Cox, of Litchfield; five grandchildren: Brianna, Camden, William, Lucian and Ayla; a brother, William “Bill” Johnston, of Lamoine; a sister, Karen Wagner, of Camden; several nieces and nephews; his sons’ mother, Linda Johnston of Topsham. He was predeceased by his parents.

Words of condolence and tribute may be shared at www.chandlerfunerals.com.

James S. Johnston