Jimmy Doyle Johnston

Jimmy “Jim” Doyle Johnston, 73, of West Lafayette, passed away on June 14, 2026, at his home, surrounded by the family he loved so deeply. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, veteran, craftsman, and friend, Jim leaves behind a legacy built with skilled hands, steadfast faith, and a sense of humor that could brighten any room.

Born on October 27, 1952, in Collierville, Tennessee, to the late Doyle and Annie Johnston, Jim developed an aptitude for fixing, building, and understanding how things worked from an early age. He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force for four years as a heavy equipment mechanic, where he honed the mechanical expertise that would become a hallmark of his life.

Following his military service, Jim dedicated 43 years to Delphi, Indiana’s oldest family-owned business, Delphi Body Works (DBW). Initially, he serviced vehicles, then advanced to Service Manager, and then promoted to Plant Manager—a position which he held for at least 25 years. Jim wore many hats! Besides coordinating production, he also did purchasing, engineering, testing, and was DBW’s computer expert. He was noted for treating everyone fairly as well as giving visitors impromptu lessons in electrical conduction.

His talents extended far beyond his profession. Whether restoring classic cars, assembling intricate metal model kits, or constructing backyard projects from the ground up, Jim found joy in creating things that would stand the test of time. Friends and family alike admired his craftsmanship, but even more memorable was his ability to make people laugh.

Above all, Jim was a man of faith and family. He loved the Lord and was a faithful member of Cornerstone Baptist Church in Lafayette, IN. He and his wife also hosted small group meetings in their home. He found his greatest fulfillment in the love of his Lord, the people he loved, and the relationships he nurtured throughout his life.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Elizabeth; his children, Joshua J. Johnston (Mary), Summer M. Partington (Shawn), Autumn J. Wall, Caleb J. Johnston (Melissa), Winter D. Johnston (Adam), Micah J. Johnston (Stephanie), Spring B. Bishop (Geoff); and his stepchildren, Marci L. Patterson (Harold), Daniel P. Pine (Tomeka), Jared J. Pine, Anne T. Powell (Chase), Susan E. Pine, David M. Pine (Jennifer), the late John E. Pine (Kim), Dustin J. Pine (Theresa), and Joshua T.L. Pine (Audra).

He was a proud father, grandfather, and great-grandfather to a multitude.

Though his hands are now at rest, the things he built, the lessons he taught, and the laughter he shared will remain with those who knew and loved him for generations to come.

A celebration of Jim’s life will be held at Cornerstone Baptist Church (2400 Edgelea Dr, Lafayette, IN 47905) on June 19, 2026, at 2:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Jim’s memory to Cornerstone Baptist Church.

Jim's care has been entrusted to Comfort Cremations, 674 N. 36th St., Lafayette, IN 47905 | (866) U-R-Loved | www.comfortcremations.net