Vera Jean Johnston (nee McLeod) passed away peacefully at Sunset Manor in Innisfail, Alberta on July 18, 2026 at the age of 96 years. She is lovingly remembered by her sons, Leslie (Judy Winn), Kelly, Ellis (Meredith) and Randy; her daughters, Gloria Boomer and Sharon Pritz; as well as numerous nieces and nephews extended family members and friends. She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Harold Ellis Johnston (1998); her parents Henry and Margaret McLeod: her brothers, Leo, Scotty and John McLeod; her sisters Bernice Hart, Isabelle McBride and Helen Anderson; and her son-in-law, Robert Pritz. Born and raised in Leslieville, Alberta, Vera was one of seven children born to Henry and Margaret McLeod. Her father owned and operated a blacksmith shop and the McLeod Manor, a landmark which continues to bear the family name today. Vera attended Campbell School and often laughed about how the first day her feet did not touch the floor while sitting at her desk. She also fondly remembered hearing the train whistle blowing as it passed, knowing it was her uncle, the engineer. As a young woman, Vera worked at a restaurant by the Innisfail Theatre, where she met her future husband, Harold Johnston of Markerville. They were married June 30, 1954 at the Markerville Lutheran Church, and began a life together built on love, hard work and family. Only a year into their marriage, Harold’s father, Leslie was tragically killed in a farming accident. Vera and Harold stepped forward to carry on the family farm, milking cows, hauling cream to the Markerville Creamery, raising pigs and chicken and later developing cow-calf operation while continuing to grow grain. Together, they raised six children: Leslie, Kelly, Gloria, Sharon, Randy and Ellis. Vera took great pride in taking care of her family and her home. Her large garden was a yearly tradition and was well known for selling hundreds of dozens of farm fresh eggs that she would take to Red Deer. Later, she raised hundreds of broiler chickens each season, welcoming customers from Rocky Mountain House and Red Deer and surrounding communities. Vera’s talent reached far beyond the farm, she was an active member in the Hola and Markerville community, decorating wedding and anniversary cakes and creating elegant corsages for countless special occasions. A dedicated member of the Markerville Good Neighbor Club, she also affectionately she earned the nickname, “the pie lady”. One of Vera’s happiest memories was celebrating her eightieth birthday party held in the Markerville Hall, family and friends were surprised with a surprise performance by Ben Crane, she was on top of the world. Vera will be remembered by her unwavering love of family, her generosity, remarkable work ethic and her willingness to lend a helping hand. A Celebration of Life will be held at the Fensala Hall in Markerville, Alberta on August 22, 2026 from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. Condolences,

memories and photos may be shared and viewed at www.heartlandfuneralservices.com. Arrangements in care of: Heartland Funeral Services Ltd., 4415 – 49 Street, Innisfail, Alberta. Phone: 403.227.0006