Robert "Glyn" Johnston

Robert "Glyn" Johnston, born on November 8, 1931, in Norphlet, Arkansas, peacefully departed this life on January 19, 2026, in Gladewater, Texas, leaving behind a legacy that will resonate through the hearts of many.

Glyn's journey began when he moved at the age of 10 to the small, spirited community of Union Grove, where he went on to graduate in 1948, leaving a trail of commendable achievements in football. His family legacy continues at Union Grove School where his great-granddaughter, Lyndsey Wallace attends today. His talent and dedication led him to Panola Junior College after high school, where he contributed to his team's state championships for two consecutive years. He continued his athletic journey at East Texas State University, now Texas A&M Commerce, where he celebrated an extraordinary 30-game winning streak that went unbroken and secured three consecutive championships in the Lone Star Conference. His prowess on the field earned him the recognition of Outstanding Defensive Player, and he proudly joined the East Texas State Hall of Fame in 1952, further honored as a member of the Texas Football Hall of Fame and the Union Grove Hall of Fame.

After his studies, Glyn served in the United States Air Force as a 1st Lieutenant, demonstrating his dedication beyond the athletics he was well-known for. In 1956, Glyn returned to Union Grove, not just as a beloved alumnus but as an inspiring history teacher and coach for Union Grove School. With his notable coaching skills, he assisted the Union Grove Lions football team to the Regional Championship Playoffs in 1956, 1957, and 1958. The team also went on under his role as head coach to become the 1965 Regional Champions again, earning him the title of Coach of the Year. Under his mentorship, many generations of "Grovers" learned not only American History, Civics, Health, and Drivers Education but also the values of hard work, kindness, and integrity. The Union Grove Football Stadium is named Glyn Johnston Stadium, a testament to his profound impact on the community he loved.

Glyn was known far and wide for his warm heart, engaging storytelling, and genuine kindness. He was not just a teacher; he was a guiding force, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of countless students and athletes who knew him. Those who encountered him remember him as the best person they could have known, dedicated to nurturing the young minds and spirits around him.

He is survived by his loving wife of 20 years, Marilyn Johnston, and a loving family that includes his daughter, Pam Mahaffey and her husband Bud; his son, Bob Johnston; his grandchildren, Tommie Lynn Reagan, Stephenie Hilton, and McKenzie Johnston; and his great-grandchildren, Lyndsey Wallace and Daylin Rushing. Glyn's legacy also flourishes with his stepchildren Tamme Whaley (Ben); Rick Eikenhorst (Shannon), Chris Eikenhorst (Jennifer); Krystal Elrod (Justin), Tiffany Tanner (Richie), Whitney Pickett (Blake), and Christina Merutka (Conner); grandchildren, Noah, Coby, Owen, Patrick, Katy, Logan, Haven, Caden, Ryder, and Jeff; and great-grandchildren Ava, Elle, Arden, Hayden, Preston, Grayson, and Kira.

Glyn's spirit will forever be remembered by his loving family and friends. He joins those who have gone before him, including his first wife of 46 years, Billie Kennedy Johnston, father Albert Johnston, mother Lois Hight Johnston, sisters Thomasine Winkle, Beth Hagen, and Faye Carter, and brother Bo Johnston. Together, they rest now, celebrating a life well-lived, and a legacy that will inspire forevermore.

Visitation will be held on January 28, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, followed by a Funeral Service from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Croley Funeral Home in Gladewater, TX. Interment will take place afterward at Union Grove Cemetery, where loved ones can pay their final respects in a place that holds so many cherished memories.

Glyn Johnston was more than a remarkable teacher and coach; he was a beacon of light and love for all who knew him. May his memory continue to guide and inspire others, as he has done throughout his life.

Said best by Holly Howell Watson: Here's to you, Coach. You've made your final touchdown and won the game. Thank you for giving so much of yourself to our school and its kids. You'll never be forgotten.