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:  Face Book at Holy Redeemer

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.

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