Kathleen Ruth “Kathy” Pavlick Johnston, 73, of Blairsville, passed away on April 10, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born on October 11, 1952, in Josephine, Pennsylvania, Kathy was the cherished daughter of the late Edward and Dorothy Rager Pavlick. She graduated from Blairsville High School in 1970, where she was an honor roll student, a member of the color guard, and a dedicated member of the band as a clarinet player.
Kathy attended Indiana University of Pennsylvania until she met the love of her life, John Johnston, Jr. They were married on June 3, 1972, and shared a devoted marriage until John’s passing in 2017. Kathy found great joy in her family and the simple pleasures of life, including baking, reading, watching television, and previously raising award-winning pygmy goats. She loved dogs and will be missed by her current companion, Sadie.
She is survived by her two sons: John Johnston III and his wife, Kara, along with their children—Kiernan, John IV (Johnny), Keelyn, and Lily—whom Kathy deeply loved as a devoted grandmother. She is also survived by her son, Richard Johnston, who lovingly served as her caretaker as he was continually by her side during her illness. Kathy was also a loving grandmother to Ashley Kirkland and Jacey Kirkland, who she would spoil with an endless assortment of hugs, kisses (and ice cream). A tradition she would continue with her great grandchildren, Rhode, Iren and Delilah. Kathy is further survived by her four siblings: Edward Pavlick (Bobbi), Mark Pavlick (Mary Lou), Daniel Pavlick (Aimee); and Patrick Pavlick (Lucy). In addition, she leaves behind numerous cousins and many dear friends. Kathy will be remembered for her warm spirit, her love of family, and the quiet strength she showed throughout her life.
The family will receive friends at the Ferguson Funeral Home & Monument Company, 25 W. Market St. Blairsville, PA 15717 on Tuesday, April 14, 2026 from 2-4 & 6-8 PM. A funeral service will be held in the funeral home on Wednesday, April 15, 2026 at 11:00 AM with Rev. William A. Schaefer officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Kathy’s memory to a cancer research organization or local animal rescue, in honor of her love for her pygmy goats.
Rest in peace, dear Kathy. You will be deeply missed.
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