Stephen Dunbar Johnston

July 20, 1952 – September 10, 2026

Stephen at Heceta Head Lighthouse on his 74th birthday, July 20, 2026

Stephen Dunbar Johnston, college teacher, traveler, and devoted lover of books and opera, died on September 10, 2026, in Eugene, Oregon. He was 74.

Born in Somerville, Massachusetts, Stephen made his way west and built a life of words, music, and lasting friendships. After earning his BA and MA at the University of Massachusetts at Boston, he spent 40 years as an instructor at Lane Community College where he was deeply committed to helping students succeed. Stephen was forever a scholar and a reader. He had an incisive mind, with a quick wit and a curiosity that never waned.

He traveled the way he read, attentively and with genuine interest in the people he met and places he visited. His journeys took him through Europe, South America, and Mongolia, but it was the Oregon Coast that held his deepest affection. For his last birthday, on July 20, 2026, his family drove him up the coast to the Heceta Head Lighthouse and spent the night in Florence.

Music, above all opera, was a constant in his life. On a recent trip to Greece, his primary purpose was to hear two of his favorite classical singers perform an opera at the Greek National Opera House, while still finding time to enjoy the Acropolis Museum, the cats that wandered the streets, and a sip of retsina.

Stephen is survived by his sister, Nancy; brother-in-law, John; his nephews, Kevin and Jesse; and his niece, Katie. He was preceded in death by his brother, William (1947–2023), and by his parents, William C. Johnston (1923–2013) and Mildred (Davis) Johnston (1923–2015).

Memorial Service

September 30, 2026

Memorial begins at 1:00 p.m., formal service at 1:45 p.m.

Followed by graveside committal.

Hope Abbey Mausoleum at the Eugene Masonic Cemetery

Entrance Gate East 25th Ave & University Street Eugene, Oregon

In lieu of flowers, Stephen requested memorial donations be made to KWAX-FM in support of Saturdays at the Opera. Gifts can be sent to 75 Centennial Loop, Eugene, OR 97401 or made online at kwax.uoregon.edu

Flower purchase or tree planting is not associated with Stephen Johnston.