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Kathleen Lenore Johnston (née Black)

March 18, 1936 - May 28, 2026

It is with love and sadness that we announce the passing of Kathleen Lenore Johnston (née Black), known to most simply as Lenore, on Thursday, May 28, 2026, peacefully at home in London, Ontario, the city where she was born and spent her life. Lenore was 90 years old.

Lenore was predeceased by her beloved husband, Charles Robert Johnston, and her daughter, Charlene Roberta Johnston. She will be deeply missed by her loving children, Diane Bengivengo (Dominic), Vincent Johnston, and Jennifer Watts (Darren). She was a proud grandmother to Dan (Oh), Luke (Andreea), and Ben, who brought great joy to her life.

Lenore was also predeceased by her brother, Donald Black. She treasured the friendships she built over the years and held a special place in her heart for Fay Melvin, Barbara Corriveau, Pat Michelse, and her dear friend Alice Pelechaty, who predeceased her.

Lenore fondly remembered her many years working at 3M, where she valued not only her work, but also the friendships and camaraderie she shared with her wonderful co-workers. Those who knew her will remember her warmth, her caring nature, and the love she had for the people in her life.

Above all, Lenore cherished her family and friendships. She will be remembered with love, gratitude, and many treasured memories by all who knew her.

Visitation will be held at Westview Funeral Home and Cremation Centre, 709 Wonderland Road North, London on Tuesday, June 2, 2026 from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.  A funeral service will be held at Westview on Wednesday, June 3, 2026 at 11:00 a.m.  A Private family interment will follow.

The family wishes to thank all those who cared for and supported Lenore throughout her life and in her final days. A special thank you to the staff at St. Elizabeth Health. Lenore will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

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On behalf of my siblings, I send my deepest condolences to the children of Lenore (Aunt Lee to me) Johnston. She was the loving Aunt and sister-in-law of my Mom Dorothy Johnston. I was so proud and happy to have Lee as my Aunt, she was so loving and kind. My condolences to her children and my cousins : Dianne, Vincent and Jennifer. Love you all, and I know you will all celebrate your Mom’s life, now and forever more! XOXOXO

~ Pamela Murphy

I was so sorry to hear of the passing of Lee. I fondly remember Lee and her family as good family friends growing up. While years have passed since we last met, she is remembered with great affection. Keeping Diane, Vince and Jenny in my thoughts and prayers. May she rest in Peace Peggy

~ Peggy Barron (Bentley)

Diane, Vince and Jen I'm heart broken you mom has passed. Lee you will be missed by so many. She was the matriarch of the Johnston family. I met your mom when I was just 15 and she took me under her wing, she was more than a sister-inlaw, we both used to laught and say we were sisters. She was such a special lady and I will miss her and all the wise stories you used to tell me. Love Elizabeth🙏🙏 💖

~ Elizabeth Garcia

Vince and family-so very sorry for your loss. When I think of Lee, the very first word that comes to mind is her kindness. Vince, your mom was one very special lady, and she will be sorely missed by everyone whose lives she touched. Sending heartfelt hugs. ♥️

~ Suzanne Bennett-3M retiree

My sincere condolences to Lee Johnston’s family and loved ones. I had the privilege of working with Lee at 3M where she was a passionate advocate for workers and women's rights. She cared deeply about people and was always willing to stand up for those she felt were being treated unfairly or taken advantage of. Lee was also a good friend. We stayed in touch through text conversations, and I always appreciated her kindness, compassion, and unwavering commitment to helping others. She will be remembered for the positive impact she had on so many lives and will be greatly missed by her many friends and colleagues. Thinking of her family during this very difficult time.

~ Julie White

Michelle and I want you to know how truly sorry we are, and that we’re thinking of all of you. Aunt Lee was such a wonderful, kind person. We didn’t get to see her as often in recent years, but every time we did, it felt like no time had passed at all. She had that way about her. She’ll be deeply missed.

~ Larry & Michelle Clancy

I am so incredibly sorry for your loss. Hearing the loss of Lee brought back a flood of wonderful memories of our younger days. Time May have passed, but the impact of Lee’s friendship never faded. Holding your family close in my thoughts. May she RIP June Bentley

~ June Bentley

Diane, Vince and Jennifer my heart breaks for you all and your family. Lee was always so proud of you all and her love for you was abundant. As you know met your mom at 3M and Bill and I became great friends with not only your mom but your dad. I am so sorry for your loss.. heaven gained an angle nut we lost one terrific lady. Lots of love Yvonne

~ Yvonne White

I worked with Lee at 3m. She was a funny wonderful lady. She always made me laugh. My deepest condolences to the family.

~ Gidget wilson

Services for Kathleen Lenore Johnston (née Black)

Visitation will be held at:
Westview Funeral Home & Cremation Centre
709 Wonderland Road North
London, Ontario

June 2, 2026 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm

Funeral Service will be held at:
Westview Funeral Home & Cremation Centre
709 Wonderland Road North
London, Ontario

June 3, 2026 11:00 am