Frances M. Johnstone

Frances Miller Johnstone, 92, who served as a young “Rosie the Riveter” during World War II, passed away Wednesday, September 27, 2017 after a short stay in the hospital. Viewing will be one hour prior to the funeral service. Funeral service will be 1:00 pm on Thursday, October 5, 2017 at Living Grace Baptist Church. Interment will be at Highland Cemetery. Arrangements are in the care of O’Connor Funeral Home. Frances was born April 8, 1925 in Nashua, Montana to Peter and Legretta Miller. She attended school in Malta, but before graduating, she boarded the train to Bremerton, Washington to help with the war effort. She finished high school there while she worked in the shipyards. After the War she lived in California until 1948, when she returned to Malta to work in the Phillips County Clerk and Recorder’s office. In 1952, she married William Johnstone and moved to Great Falls. She worked for the Hartford Insurance Company for 18 years, then for Home Insurance. In 1984, she and Bill moved to Scottsdale, Arizona. She worked for Nationwide there, until 1992, when she retired to Great Falls. Frances was passionate about sports. Her women’s softball league team won the state softball championship in 1962. She collected numerous bowling trophies and never tired of watching football, basketball, and baseball on television. She will also be remembered for her beautiful dolls, which won ribbons and honors at the Montana State Fair. The most defining element of Frances’ life was her trust and confidence in the Lord Jesus Christ. She rested in his love and care from those dark World War II days to the final hours of her life. She was an active member of Grace Baptist Church (now Living Grace), where she taught Sunday school children. She served on Christian Women’s Club leadership team, and belonged to Retired Insurance Women. Frances is survived by her sister Mary Gadbaw, Great Falls; and brothers Louis Miller, Billings, and Irvin Miller, Great Falls; and by numerous nieces, nephews, and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Bill; and sisters Helen Albright, Sophie Miller, and Evelyn Itcina. Memorials may be given to Peace Hospice, PO Box 7008, Great Falls MT 59406-7008, or to any charity of one’s choice.