Ira Sanford “Sandy” Johnston, 74, of Orrick, Mo., went to be with the Lord on Saturday evening, November 10, 2018, at his home in Orrick, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born on September 20, 1944 in Parsons, Kans., to Ira Clifford Johnston and Marie (Bircher) Johnston. He had lived in the Cleveland, Ohio area before moving to Orrick in 2014. He was commonly known by his close friends and family as Sandy.

Sandy had served his country in the U.S. Navy. He had worked for many years as an over the road truck driver and later he drove for the Kirby Corporation in Cleveland, Ohio, until his retirement in 2011. On November 5, 2016, he was united in marriage to Penny Lou Webb of Orrick. Following their marriage, Sandy and Penny made their home in Orrick. Sandy enjoyed motorcycles and he loved to ride them. He also liked to do woodworking in his spare time. He loved the Lord and he loved animals.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Donna Sue Johnston on March 4, 2012; and his sisters, Dora and Rose.

Sandy is survived by his wife, Penny Lou Johnston of the home; children, Cindy Thurnau and husband Tim, Amber Villarreal and a granddaughter that lived in the home, Maggie Dorsey, all of Orrick, Mo., Billy Webb and wife Dee of Richmond, Mo.; eight grandchildren and six great grandchildren; brothers-in-law, Dave and Eddie; several nieces and nephews and a special niece, Regina Lesley. He is also survived by his little dog, Little Love.

Visitation will be from 10 to 11 a.m. Thursday, November 15, 2018 at Gowing Funeral Home in Orrick. Funeral services will follow at 11 a.m. at the funeral home, with Rev. Dave Hackett officiating.

Graveside services and burial will be at 3 p.m. Thursday, November 15, 2018 at Pisgah Cemetery in rural Chilhowee, Mo.