Sue (Susan Jane) Johnston (23 Aug 1951 - 28 Mar 2026)
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Sue (Susan Jane)
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In loving memory of Susan Jane Johnston BEM
Susan Jane Johnston (known as Sue to her friends) sadly passed away on 28 March 2026. She was a much-loved sister, aunt, dog grandma, beloved mother (to James) and loving wife (to Gordon).
Sue was a member of the University of York community for nearly 30 years, until her retirement in 2012. She was a well-respected leader who worked tirelessly to deliver essential services for the University. As Head of Campus Services, she held a broad portfolio and led the delivery of major operational projects, including timetabling, the opening of new buildings, and the coordination of property and campus services. At that time, she managed one of the largest cohorts of professional services staff within the University.
Sue was known for her encyclopaedic knowledge of the University and its estate. Her early work on the University’s property inventory helped support the University’s growth and renewal during a period of significant change and expansion. For some time, she also held a pastoral role at James College, working with the senior team and enjoying getting to know the students. She was well known for her ability to work with the brightest academic minds who were not as pragmatic as her and she got to know the academic community well.
In recognition of her long service to higher education, Sue was awarded a Vice-Chancellor's Gold Award in 2012 and then a British Empire Medal in 2013. In her acceptance speech for her medal, she thanked all the staff who had enabled her to achieve such recognition and said she was greatly humbled to be invited to receive the award.
Sue was generous and kind, and she also had a sharp ability to cut through management language and focus on what truly mattered to her which was delivering for her staff and the academic and student community.
She was a self-confessed "home bird", happiest walking in the Yorkshire Wolds with her dogs or spending time with her family and their wider circle of friends. She was well known for her candour, humour and combined charm and gravitas with an ability to hold a room and bring people with her. She was always honest about whether she would like you or not and she always aimed to keep those people "on their toes" including Gordon (of course).
Sue was proud to be a magnificently dressed leader, always well turned out and known for her great taste in handbags and shoes, as well as her love of her sporty cars. She proudly won the title of the show queen of Bishop Wilton Village Show in the early 1970s and was well known for her keen eye for great fashion sense.
After her retirement she was also an active volunteer for community projects, now and again dabbling in advisory work and was a happy donor to many charities that gave her joy over the years. She asked to collect donations for the Yorkshire Air Ambulance and Guide Dogs which you can donate to them here or on the Plate at the service.
Sue passed away peacefully at home following a long battle with cancer, with her final years spent surrounded by those closest to her. She wanted you to know that she was very much in charge and calling the shots in this last period of her life and continued to enjoy life to the full with those closest to her.
We will all miss her dearly and plan to celebrate her life and impact at a ceremony at York Crematorium followed by a reception at the Gold Cup Inn, Low Catton. As requested by Sue, don't wear something sombre, please wear something smart and colourful to the service.
Mourners are advised to make the appropriate travel arrangements and let the Gold Cup know of any dietary requirements. Telephone for the pub: 01759 371354
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R.I.P Sue Johnston University of York
I was so proud to be your PA/Secretary for 7 years before you encouraged me to complete a Degree Course.
Helen and myself will never forget the kindness and understanding you gave us whilst I was working for you sleep well Bonnie lass sincere wishes from Carol Hodgson & Helen Rebecca Hodgson you won’t be forgotten. 🥲🥲🥲❤️❤️❤️❤️
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With love to the Johnston family from Jaine, Johnny, Dolly and Betty, in memory of Sue- what a woman. X
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It was always a delight to work with Sue on many projects at the University - she was always bright and positive looking for solutions to benefit everyone.
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Dear Uncle Gordon and James, unfortunately I will not be able to attend, due to work and childcare issues!
I would like to pass on our good wishes to you all. We hope you find some solace thinking of great memories of untie Sue!
She and you all will be in our thoughts xxx
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I had the remarkable luck and pleasure to meet Sue when I first arrived at the University in 2004 when my job was to create and establish a new human brain research centre. Sue was key to the success of that project. Her knowledge, contacts, attention to detail, professionalism and good humour were crucial and I wish to acknowledge my debt to her. I am very sorry to hear that she had a long battle with cancer. Please accept my sincere condolences.
I am not surprised to hear that Sue was still calling the shots even in the last period of her life. But when I knew her, I was grateful for her forthright views and she certainly ensured that I maintained the highest standards.
Thank you Sue
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Sorry to hear this very sad news. Such an elegant, smart lady who had a big smile and time for everyone. We shared many stories and laughs on the landing of Heslington Hall many many years ago. Sue will be missed by many and my heart goes out to Gordon and James.
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I am sorry to hear about your loss. I knew Sue from the university. We both were members at the David Lloyds and would often see each other in the morning before starting work. She was indeed as the obituary mentions always magnficenty dressed. Looking at her in the morning at the gym, I always felt very underdressed. I am glad I got to know Sue.
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Sue, my beautiful wife: strong, intelligent and kind. Now free from pain. Our love will go on, God bless. G xxxx
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I only met Sue a few times at the University as part of my role as Student Union Services Officer.
I dont' need to repeat this very well written obituory. I wanted to add that she was such a genuinely lovely and inspirational person to meet. The University was considerably better off for her passionate involvement.
As students many tens of thousands of us passed through without knowing how much of a positive impact she had on all of us.
Despite only a few meetings in person, nearly 25 years on I'm still honoured to have met and worked with her.
The world would be a much better place with a lot more Sue's getting stuck in!
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Thank you for this lovely comment. We think Sue had an amazing impact and are very proud of her.
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I will always remember the good times we shared together over the years. Thank you for your kindness. Rest in peace Sue, I will miss you lots xxx
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I’m deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Sue. She touched the lives of so many with her kindness, warmth, and gentle spirit. Her presence brought comfort, laughter, and light to those around her, and she will be remembered for the love she shared so freely.
In this difficult time, may you find strength in the memories you hold close and peace in knowing how much she meant to everyone who knew her. Sue’s legacy lives on in the hearts she touched and the moments she made special.
Thinking of you and sending heartfelt condolences. May she rest in peace, and may her memory always be a blessing. 🤍
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Huge shock to read and whilst I haven’t spoken to Sue lately, she was very influential in helping me in the early years of starting my own business at Stonehouse. She was a force to be reckoned with, but once you earned the trust, she was a pussy cat.
R.I.P. Sue and thanks for the help in my earlier days.x
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Sending heartfelt condolences.
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Sue, my beautiful wife: strong, intelligent and kind. Now free from pain. Our love will go on, God bless. G xxxx
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