Kathleen J. Johnston, 84, of Greenfield, Indiana, passed away on June 9, 2026. She was born in Indianapolis, Indiana, to Patricia Heidbrink & Edward Jacoby, and was the first of three girls.

A proud graduate of Scecina Catholic High School in Indianapolis in 1959, Kathleen initially pursued studies in nursing before obtaining her sociology degree from Purdue University. Her professional journey was as varied as it was distinguished. She devoted time as a Red Cross volunteer and worked at Indiana Bell (now AT&T), Planters Bank (now Regions), and as a salesperson at Sears. At Sears, her talents shone brightly—she earned multiple awards for outstanding sales, a testament to her dedication and skill. In her later years, she found fulfillment working with Westfield Schools as a bus aide during her retirement.

Kathleen’s personal journey was rich with meaningful relationships and experiences. In 1962, Kathleen married Daniel Osburn, whom she met through mutual classmates from their respective Catholic high schools, Scecina and Cathedral. Together they raised three children: Heath Osburn of Charlotte, North Carolina; Danielle Osburn of Greenfield, Indiana; and beloved daughter, Margaret Osburn, now deceased. Although Kathleen and Daniel later divorced, she found love again. In 1991, Kathleen married Jerry Johnston, spending a devoted 35 years together. They met while working as commissioned salespeople in Sears’ carpeting and home appliance departments, which sparked a partnership built on mutual respect and companionship.

Throughout her life, Kathleen adapted beautifully to changes in residence, living in various places including Indianapolis, Evansville, Marion County/Lawrence, Memphis, Westfield, and Greenfield. As a devoted dog lover, canine companions were always present in Kathleen’s home. In earlier years, she dedicated herself to training Irish Setters for dog show competitions. She leaves behind her rescue dogs, Andrea and Reynolds, who were constant sources of comfort and joy in her life.

Known for her creativity and artistic flair, Kathleen explored an array of household and decorative crafts throughout her life—candle making, painting, ceramics, sewing, knitting, crocheting, embroidery, and card making were among her many pursuits. She was also an avid reader and devoted sports fan, rooting passionately for the Colts and Pacers, especially during their victorious seasons.

Her green thumb was legendary, nurtured through her completion of Purdue University’s Master Gardener program and reflected in the flourishing plantings that adorn homes she cherished in Memphis and the Indianapolis area. She inspired her children and future generations to cultivate their own love of gardening and "green thumb" activities.

She leaves behind a loving family that includes her husband, Jerry Johnston; son, Heath Osburn and his wife Jennifer; grandson, Hayden; granddaughter, Morgan and her husband, Alex Demanche, and their children, Genevieve and Rowan; her daughter, Danielle Osburn and her husband, Brian Fulciniti; granddaughter, Heather, and her sons, Brenden and Karter; as well as stepchildren, Dawn Johnston and Jeffrey Johnston, siblings; Jackie McGovern and Nancy Jacoby; and rescue dogs, Andrea and Reynolds.

Kathleen is preceded in death by her parents and her daughter, Margaret Osburn.

A Celebration of Life will be at 10:30am on Monday, June 15, 2026, at Flanner Buchanan – Oaklawn Memorial Gardens (Good Shepherd Chapel) – 9700 Allisonville Rd., Indianapolis, IN 46250. Entombment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Gardens – Good Shepherd Mausoleum.