Vella M. Johnston, 86, was born on January 27, 1937 in Lufkin, TX to Wade and Janie (Carroll) Gillikin. She was preceded in death by both parents; her husband, Wadell Johnston; sons, Jimmy Johnston and Gary Johnston; brothers, Robert Gillikin and Watson Gillikin.

Vella had been a longtime resident of the Valliant area, since the early 1970's. She loved cooking and sewing and often sewed for the community, making welding caps for the guys at the mill. Vella worked for many years at Doc's, Bullock's and Plunkett's convenience stores as manager. She knew everyone in the community. More than anything, Vella loved her family, especially her grandkids. She will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Vella is survived by her sons, Mike Johnston, Rodney Johnston and Terry Johnston; grandchildren, Gina Johnston Ridley, Dusty Johnston, Tony Johnston, Cody Johnston, Rock Johnston, Kailey Johnston Pettepher and Hannah Johnston; along with a host of other family, friends and loved ones.