James D. ‘Jim’ Johnston

RICHMOND, Ky. — James D. “Jim” Johnston, of Richmond, passed away unexpectedly Monday, Sept. 8, 2025, at the age of 61.

Jim was born April 17, 1964, in Bradford, Pa.; the son of James Duane and Lula Belle Johnston.

He graduated from Allegany (N.Y.) Central School in 1981, going on to obtain a bachelor’s degree in computer science from St. Bonaventure University in 1985 and a master’s degree in mathematical sciences from Binghamton University in 1987.

After graduate school, he founded a small business that specialized in fantasy sports software and technology consulting, remaining in business for 25 years. But his primary occupation was as a math and computer science professor, teaching at Concord University in Athens, W.V. from 1991 to 2019, and at Eastern Kentucky University from 2020 until his passing.

Jim was an avid Pittsburgh sports fan, especially of his beloved Pirates. He would jump at any opportunity to attend a game and support his teams, home or away. Whether taking a road trip or trying to make a short connection at Charlotte airport, he also enjoyed traveling, most of all with his son.

He is survived by his mother, Lula Shalke of Princeton, W.V.; son, Tanner Johnston of Northwood, Ohio; partner, Bev Nordahl of Cincinnati, Ohio; and former wife, Susan Johnston of Northwood, Ohio.

He was preceded in death by his father.

No services will be held. Interment will take place at McKean Memorial Park in Lewis Run, Pa.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Roberto Clemente Foundation, https://robertoclementefoundation.org/; or to a scholarship fund of your choice at Concord University or Eastern Kentucky University.