Philip W. Johnston, a longtime resident of Marshfield, a former lawmaker and lifelong advocate for social justice, passed away suddenly on April 5, 2025 at South Shore Hospital in Weymouth. He leaves his wife of 60 years, Beverly R. (Balestrier) Johnston; his daughter Ellen Johnston of Boston, MA; his son Robert Johnston of Los Angeles, CA and his wife, Joanne Katsch; and a granddaughter, Priscilla Johnston. Son of the late Philip W. and Elizabeth (Foley) Johnston, he is survived by his sisters Beth Healey of Princeton, New Jersey and Suzanne Knight of Milton, MA.

From an early age, Philip was drawn to public service. He protested and joined in the Civil Rights movement of the 1960's and, through his later work as the state Secretary of Health and Human Services, continued to be a voice for the poor, the disabled, the elderly, and otherwise marginalized citizens. He served as former chairman of the state Democratic Party, and worked at his own consulting firm, Philip W. Johnston Associates, right up until his passing.

Philip was a steadfast champion for the people and the causes he knew to be right and true. He worked tirelessly for the greater good and we are all benefactors of his dedication. He will be forever loved and never forgotten.

A public celebration of the life of Philip W. Johnston will be held on Sunday, April 13, 2025 from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the UMASS Boston Campus Center Ballroom, located at 100 Morrissey Boulevard in Boston.

In memory of Phil, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Massachusetts League of Community Health Centers, an organization that represents the 50 community health centers in the state. Your generosity will continue Phil's legacy of commitment to the community health center movement and his work to advance social justice, human rights, and health throughout his career.

Donations can be made by check to the Massachusetts League of Community Health Centers, 40 Court Street, 10th Floor, Boston MA 02108 or online at massleague.org . Click the donate tab and select "In Phil Johnston's memory" from the dropdown menu. For ACH or any other type of gift please contact Dawn Matthews at dmatthews@massleague.org

For driving directions and other helpful information please visit the website macdonaldfuneralhome.com