Norma Jean Johnston , 95, of Columbia City formerly of Fort Wayne, passed away surrounded by the love of her family, at 4:49 p.m. on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, at Miller's Oak Pointe, Columbia City, Indiana. She left behind a legacy of kindness, music, service, and adventure. Her life was defined by her generous heart, her deep faith, and her unwavering devotion to the people she loved.

Norma was born March 22, 1931, in Whitley County, to the late Arthur W. and Irene L. (Meyer) Trier.  Growing up in Columbia City, she graduated from Columbia City High School in 1949.  She then earned an Associate's Degree for Medical Transcription from Valparaiso University.

On August 10, 1952, Norma married Doyle A. Johnston. They made their home in Fort Wayne, Indiana where they raised their children.

Norma dedicated 45 years to working for OBGYN Consultants as a Medical Transcriber. Her sharp mind and steady work ethic made her a trusted and respected colleague.

Music was woven into the fabric of Norma's life. She shared her beautiful voice through Northern Notes Chorus with Sweet Adelines, Festival Choir, and countless church choirs over the years.

Her faith community was always central to her life. She raised her children at Gethsemane Lutheran Church, later worshiped at Our Savior Lutheran Church, and in her later years became a beloved member of St. John's Lutheran Church in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

A lifelong traveler, Norma explored the United States from coast to coast and ventured abroad to Ireland, England, Germany, and Austria. She embraced every journey with curiosity and joy.

Norma had a heart for helping others. She volunteered for many years at Lutheran Life Villages—where she eventually made her home—and celebrated her love for medicine by serving as a patient escort at Lutheran Hospital in Fort Wayne. Her compassion touched countless lives.

Norma also found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She was an enthusiastic lover of Bridge, Euchre, and nearly any card game that brought people together. Her greatest happiness, though, came from time spent with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She delighted in taking them on adventures—to the zoo, bowling alleys, playgrounds, movie theaters, and anywhere laughter could be found.

Norma's warmth, generosity, and joyful spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her legacy lives on in the music she loved, the family she cherished, and the countless lives she touched along the way.

Norma was survived by her children, Karla K. Gerke of St. Peters, MO, Risa A. (David) Chappell of Columbia City, and Matthew D. (Tamara) Johnston of Mt. Juliet, TN; seven grandchildren; and 16 great-grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Doyle; brothers, Arthur Trier, Vernon Trier, and Robert Trier; and son-in-law, Kenneth F. Gerke.

A funeral service will be held at 11a.m. on Wednesday, June 24, 2026 at Smith & Sons Funeral Home in Columbia City. Visitation is from 10:00 am until the service at the funeral home.  Norma will be laid to rest beside her husband at Greenlawn Memorial Park of Fort Wayne.

Memorials in Norma's honor are to Stillwater Hospice, Fort Wayne or Miller's At Oak Pointe, Columbia City.