Whitney Pier
With broken hearts and immeasurable love, our family announces the passing of Terrence Michael ‘Terry’ Johnston on November 19, 2025, at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital, Sydney.
Born in Sydney on June 11, 1961, Terry was the son of the late Colleen and Daniel Johnston
Terry is survived by his forever love of 45 years, Deneyse; sons, Chad (Darlene) and Cory (Kelsey); cherished grandchildren, Avery, Layla, and Mya; sisters, Joan and Linda; brothers, Collie and Kenny (Pam); sister-in-law, Debbie and many nieces and nephews.
Besides his parents, Terry was predeceased by his brother, Danny.
A man whose laughter, loyalty, and irresistible charm filled every room he walked into, Terry leaves behind a legacy built on humour, devotion, and a deep, unwavering love for his family.
Terry shared an extraordinary and enduring love with his wife Deneyse, his partner of 45 years, and the person who knew his heart better than anyone. Their bond was built on devotion, friendship, and a lifetime of standing side by side through every joy and every challenge. Together, they created a home filled with love, laughter, and memories that will be cherished forever. Their commitment to each other was unwavering, and the depth of their connection was evident to anyone who saw them together.
Terry was a proud and devoted father to his two sons, Chad and Cory, who brought him immense pride throughout his life. From countless hours spent in cold rinks, to the days and nights spent at the bungalow during hunting and fishing season, these were some of his happiest memories. Those moments—filled with laughter, lessons learned, and the joy of simply being together—shaped a bond that could never be broken. They were his heart, his purpose, and two of his greatest accomplishments.
Family was at the core of who he was, and he took great pride in being a husband, father, brother, uncle, and Pa. He leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, and a large extended family, including many loved ones in Johnston’s Harbour, each of whom held a special place in his heart.
Above all else, Terry adored his three grandchildren—Avery, Layla, and Mya—who were the absolute light of his life. To him, they were not just grandchildren, but the very reason he woke up each day with purpose. They brought him joy beyond measure, and he poured every bit of his heart into being their “Pa”. Their bond was unshakeable, and his love for them will continue living in the stories, laughter, and memories they carry forward.
Terry was also the funniest uncle anyone could ask for—quick-witted, mischievous, and always ready with a perfectly timed joke. His love of Seinfeld quotes, his unbeatable sense of humour, and his ability to make people laugh—even on the hardest days—made him unforgettable.
Terry enjoyed his longtime career at Canada Post with pride, before retiring in 2016. However, his proudest accomplishment was his family and being “Pa” to his grandchildren, who were truly his gems.
He was a man of passions: golfing, fishing and hunting were more than hobbies; they were the moments where he found peace, connection, and joy. Terry had the unique ability to turn any simple gathering into a memory worth keeping.
A master researcher and champion procrastinator, Terry had an unmatched ability to dive deep into any topic—whether he needed to or not. He could find the answer to anything, and he took pride in knowing just a bit more than everyone else. And though he may have taken his time getting things done, he always did them with heart.
Terry’s warmth, humour, and presence will be deeply missed by everyone lucky enough to know him. His love shaped our lives, his laughter filled our homes, and his spirit will forever remain in each of us.
We would like to extend their deepest gratitude to Dr. Hodson and Dr. MacMullin for their exceptional care, compassion, and dedication throughout Terry’s journey. We are also profoundly thankful to Nicole, Sarah, and Maureen from the Wound Clinic, whose kindness and patience made an immeasurable difference. Our heartfelt appreciation goes to the VON team, and especially to Helen, whose tender care, gentle presence, and unwavering support brought comfort not only to Terry, but to all of us. We are forever grateful for the compassion each of you showed during this difficult time.
We love him endlessly. We miss him beyond words. And we will carry his memory with us always. We find comfort in knowing his love lives on in his family, especially in his children and grandchildren who meant everything to him. We will speak of him always.
There will be no visitation for the late Terry Johnston. Memorial Mass will be celebrated on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, at 10 a.m. in Holy Redeemer Church, Whitney Pier with Fr. Paul Murphy officiating. Following the Mass, a reception will be held in the Pier Community Funeral Home.
For those unable to attend, Live Streaming will be available on our website.
Click here five minutes before the service starts: https://www.facebook.com/35925689617/live/
Donations in memory of Terry may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or Canadian Diabetes Association.
Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the care and direction of Pier Community Funeral Home.
Online Condolences
Deneyse, Minnow and I send our sincerest condolences to you, Cory, Chad and families. May the cherished memories you have of Terry help guide you through this difficult time. Sending hugs and prayers.
From: Betty Bourgeois
Deneyse we are so sad to hear that Terry passed away. He was a wonderful man, and I know, the love of your life. He will be missed by so many people.
Our thoughts are with you. Love, Judy and Chris
Deneyse and Family, my deepest and sincere condolences on your loss.
From: Ross Kennedy
Deneyse and family, so very sorry for the loss of your dear Terry.
He was a great guy. Our thoughts are with you during this difficult time .
May he Rest in Peace.
Alan and Patsy Moore
So sorry for such a great loss. . My condolences to you all .I remember him growing up. Such a gentle man!
From: Sister Nichols
Denyse and family, saddened to read of Terry’s passing. He will be missed by all of you. Sending hugs….
From: Elizabeth and Doug
So sorry to hear of Terry’s passing. He was one our most favourite people. We will all miss him and his great sense of humour.
From: Nancy Maxwell
Deneyse and family my deepest condolences so sorry for your loss
Deneyse & Family
Sending our deepest sympathy 💔 at this time.
Doddy & Bobby Keel
💐💐💐💐💐💐
Deneyse & Johnston Family,
Sincere condolences to Terry’s loved ones. I worked with Terry at Canada Post, he was a really nice person. RIP Terry.
Deneyse and Family
We extend our heartfelt condolences to you all on the tragic loss of a dear husband, father, grandfather and best friend.
David & Brenda Sawler
Kenny, Deneyse and family sending heartfelt condolences on the loss of your brother, husband and dad. I remember Terry as such a nice, funny man and a very welcoming person. I know he will be sorely missed by all.
Deneyse and family ,
The world lost a great person. He was a friend to all who met him. I am so sorry for your loss.
Kelsey, Cory and family, we offer our condolences on your loss, we will keep you in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Love and hugs, Gail and Steve Green, Kelseys’ Aunt and Uncle
Dear Deneyse and Family
So very sorry for your great loss.
Hugs and prayers XO
Blair and Evelyn “Baldwin”
MaxSween
Sending our condolences to Cory Kelsey and Family .
Deneyse and family;
I am so sorry to hear of Terrys passing. I am proud to say that I worked with Terry (TJ)for many years at Canada Post. There are way too many stories to share but I’ll always have great memories of Terry from our golf trips to Cheticamp and New Glasgow to our ice fishing weekends at Johnston’s Harbour.(even though sometimes we never even left the bungalow).RIP Terry. You will sadly be missed.
Terry will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Denyse and family, your are in our thoughts and prayers. May God Bless you all.🙏
Deepest sympathy Denise to you and family.
So sorry to hear of the loss of your brother (brother-in-law) Kenny & Pam. May treasured memories of him remain in your hearts.With heartfelt sympathy Mae Bresson
DeneyseMy heart is just broken for you and your family .Terry was such a beautiful person we are so very sorry .Our deepest condolences and love to you all . Mike and Delores Henick
Our deepest sympathy to the whole family
We are very sorry to hear of Terry’s passing. Condolences to Deneyse & the whole Johnston family.
Deepest condolences to the family.
Rest in peace Terry.
Your obituary tells your story .
Rebecca and I send our condolences to Dennise and your boys . knowing your family for many years Johnstown will never be the same .
Rebecca Aucoin , Peter Gillis
We are very sorry to hear of Terry’s passing. Condolences to Deneyse & the whole Johnston family.
Deneyse and family we are sorry for your loss and know you have wonderful memories to share about Terry. He was a wonderful person and a great golf partner and I will always remember the moments we shared on the course. Our hearts go out to you at this most difficult time.
Kyte and Barb Power
My sincere condolence to Terry’s family on his passing. Terry was a kind and gentile sole who always had time for you. Always enjoyed sending parcels through the Pier Post to catch up with Terry. Rest in peace.
Ken Bickerton
Deneyse and Family
We were so saddened to hear of Terry’s passing. May the comfort of family and precious memories help you through this most difficult time. Please know our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Cory, Kelsey and girls. So saddened to hear of the passing of your Father. From hearing you speak of him we are sure you will find solace in the memories that you have shared with him during his life. We hope these memories will sustain you all during this most difficult of times.
Deneyse and Family: So sorry to hear of Terry’s passing. Condolences to all.
Our deepest sympathy for the loss of your dear and cherished husband ,father,brother and grandpa. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Our deepest and heartfelt sympathy for the loss of your husband, father,grandfather, brother, uncle and friend. May all the wonderful memories you made help you through this sad time. Cory and family please know that Chris and I are thinking of you and know that we are here for you….just a phone call away. Keep all the great memories close to your heart!
Chris & Karen Crocker
Dear Cory and Kelsey, and Family:
So very sorry to hear of your dear Dad’s passing. You are in our hearts at this time.
Joel and Ruth
I am so deeply sorry for the loss of your husband Denyse and your dad, Chad and Cory! He was such a great guy! He will be missed in the neighborhood. Sending love to you all
To The Johnston Family:
I am deeply saddened with the loss of Terry. I met Terry as a Nomad from Boston when he was 15 as a friend of his brother KJ. Since then he has been like a brother to me when I visited Johnston Harbor. I always enjoyed his stories and great sense of humor, even if I hear them 100 times. He could write a book. Within these stories was his profound LOVE for Deneyse, Chad, Cory, and don’t even get into his love for Pa’s Grand Kids.
He was the most Kind and Gentle Person I have ever met. RIP my Brother and Look over us in your new Super Power Role. I will always throw a Shoe or Two in your memory at your Pit at the harbor.
RIP Heike, Chuck
My thoughts and most sincere sympathies are extended to all family members and friends.
Debates & family, so very sorry for your loss. You are in our thoughts & prayers
Deneyse and Family
So sorry to hear of Terry’s passing
Our thoughts are with you all in this difficult time.
Donnie and Paula
I am saddened to hear that Terry has passed away. My sincere condolences to Deneyse and her children. My sympathies to the Johnston family too. I have known them for many years. I worked with Terry at the Post Office and he was one of the best employees there. May he rest in peace in heaven.
Sending my condolences to his family and friends 😇 🙏
Deepest Condolences to all The Family Terry always had a hello when out for a walk or a chat at the post office ..Fly High Terry
Sending my sincere condolences to his family, may he rest in peace!
Denyese and family and Terry,s sisters and brothers, my deepest condolences to you all on Terry,s passing, .RIP
Deneyse, our condolences to you and your family on the loss of Terry. May he RIP. Phyllis(Young) and Derek Boudreau.
So sorry for your loss may he rest in peace
Our deepest and condolences to the family, JohnDavid and Donna McLaughlin 🙏
Condolences to the family
So sorry to hear of Terry’s passing. I was a neighbour of Terry’s on MacLeod St. I remember Terry delivering mail at my workplace at the Mayflower Mall & we would catch up on old times in the pier. My sincere condolences to Terry’s family
Deneyse and Family,
My deepest condolences on your loss. Terry will be remembered and missed greatly.
Cory, Kelesy, Layla and Mya
I’m deepest condolences on your loss. I never meet Pa, but I’ve heard the best stories about him from Layla and Mya, so I feel like I knew him. Xoxo
We were friends since childhood, we live across the street from each other almost our whole lives. One of my best friends gone too soon as several others have in the last few years. MacLeod St will miss Terry and so will many others. My Deepest sympathies go out to Deneyse and the whole Johnson family. May Terry RIP 🙏
We are so sorry for your loss Deneyse. I know we haven’t known each other long but I hear such wonderful things about you both and just wanted to let you know we are thinking about you and feel incredibly sad for your loss.
Deneyse, Linda & Families,
Sending our deepest condolences at this time. So sorry for your loss
Deepest condolences to your family on your loss
To the Johnston Family, I worked with Terry at Canada Post. Have many fond memories. May he RIP.
My deepest heartfelt condolences go out to you Deneyse and the entire Johnston family. Terry was such a sweet loving family man and you my dear were the love of his life and he your hero.
May his beautiful soul rest in peace. Love and prayers, Chicky and Mandy
Deneyse and Family so sorry for your loss. Our condolences to you and your family.
Very sorry to hear of your brothers passing Kenny…our sincere condolences to you and your family.
Sincerely Wanda and Bryan
Deneyse and family, so very sorry for your loss .. thoughts and prayers to you all, cherish the memories ❤️🙏
Sincere condolences to your family at this incredibly sad time.
Warm thoughts of happy memories as friends and as neighbors, gone too soon.
Deneyse and family, our deepest condolences, we are all very sad to hear about Terry passing, thinking of all the family and sending our love.
From the Barnes family across the ocean, Brian, Marina, Owen and Keira
Joan and family:
So very sorry for your loss. My deepest sympathy.
Eileen Hartigan-Drohan
Deneyse and family I am so sorry to hear of your loss, thoughts and prayers are with you all at this most difficult time.
To Deneyse,Chad,Cory and Johnston family,I am very saddened to hear of Terry’s passing.I’ll never forget his humour and pleasant nature :).He always had such a nice smile whenever I ran into him over the years.Always a positive guy!My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family Deneyse.RIP Terry.
To Deneyse, Chad, Cory and families. Saddened to hear of Terry’s passing. It was always a pleasure to meet him on the golf course with a smile and a joke soon to follow. My day at work was much better after spending a few minutes chatting with Terry and he will truly be missed.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family ❤️
So sorry to hear of Terry’s passing . He was such a nice guy . Our prayers and thoughts are with you during this difficult time in your life .
Cory and family, my heartfelt condolences to you and your family. May all of the wonderful memories you hold in your heart, give you comfort during this very difficult time.
So sorry for your loss Deneyse and family prayers of comfort and peace.
Terry was a great guy to work with so sorry for your loss
Deneyse and family, our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Another great Pier person gone too soon. What a Beautiful obituary and tribute. The wonderful times and memories you have shared will Keep him with you always.
Deneyse, we are so sad to hear that Terry passed away. We know that he was the love of your life and he will be missed by so many. Our thoughts are with you.
Deneyse & Family: We are so sorry to hear of Terry’s passing. We know the journey you guys took. God bless at this very difficult time.
Bill & Daria
Deneyse and Johnston family,
Condolences on the loss of your Terry. Such a kind and lovely person.
Husband, father, grandfather, brother, friend to many, he will be deeply missed.
Thinking of all of you during this difficult time.
Deneyse, we are deeply saddened to hear of Terry’s passing. Thinking of you and your family at this difficult time.
Dear sweet Deneyse, I was saddened to hear of your loss and extending sincere condolences to you and your family. Big hugs to you.
Deneyse.
Sorry to hear of Terry’s passing.
Condolences to all of your family.
Deneyse and family.
Very sorry for your loss. I’ll always remember Terry as a great guy. My thoughts are with you.
Bill Fraser
Mr.keeping57@gmail.com
Deneyse, Chad, Cory and family
Our deepest condolences. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. RIP
Denetse, sons and family,
I worked with Terry at Canada Post and all the beautiful words about Terry are true. What a kind compassion, easy going man. He was one of a kind and taken too soon. Sincere condolences, Dianne MacAskill
To the Johnston family, my thoughts and prays are with you at this time. Sending my sincere condolences. 🙏
Dear Deneyse, family and friends,
We are so sorry for your loss.
Thinking of you during this difficult time.
Dear Deneyse and Family
So very sorry for your great loss.
Hugs and prayers XO
Blair and Evelyn “Baldwin”
MaxSween
The service today was beautiful. So many people, Terry was so loved and respected. Terrys niece did a beautiful job of Terrys eulogy, she absolutely nailed it. She described Terry as the great guy that he was. Terry always talked about his family and was so proud of his boys and I can’t remember a chat I had with Terry that he didn’t mention Deneyse. A true Love Story. Terry left a great Legacy, his family. The love and support they will provide for one another will get them thru the tough times. So proud to call Terry a friend.
Deneyse and family
Sorry to hear of Terry’s passing. He was one of the good guys always fun to talk to at the course.
May he Rest In Peace
Walter and Cathy Rutherford
Dear Deneyse and family,
We just heard about Terry’s passing please know that you all are in our prayers through this difficult time
Glenn, Karen, Blake and Shann Cox
So sorry to hear of Terry’s passing. He was always so pleasant with a smile for everyone! Rest in Peace
Dear Deneyse and family. I am sending you my deepest condolences on the loss of your loved one. I know that in the fullness of time your sadness will be replaced by happy memories. Sincerely, Ron Stallard