James Noel Johnston, 95, of Lake Placid went home to be with his Lord on Sunday afternoon May 17, 2020 at the Advent Health Lake Placid Hospital.  James was born on December 26, 1924 in Auburn, New York and was the son of Mary Ann (Lusk) and John Johnston.  James served his country with honor in the US Army Transportation Corp during WWII. He was a graduate of Ithaca college on the GI bill with a physical education degree, he went on to earn his master degree. James worked for twenty-five years in the New York School system as both a teacher and coach, coaching both basketball and football.  He then went to work with the local Veterans Administration of New York as recreation director for fifteen years.  James has been a resident of Lake Placid since 1993 moving here from Albany, NY.  James was a member of the St. James Catholic Church in Lake Placid, Lake Placid Morning Rotary Club and the Lake Placid Elks Lodge.  James enjoyed sports and civil war history.  He was an avid swimmer, tennis player and painter.  He loved to be with family and friends.  He is preceded in death by his sister Ellie.  He is survived by his loving wife of 33 years Iona, 3 sons; James (Susan) of Greece, NY, Kenneth (Susan) of New Market, MD and Thomas (Judith) of Middlebury, CT, Iona's children and families; Sharon (Ray) McEnroe, Joy Rupert, Kirk Noetzel (Karen) 13 grandchildren and several great grandchildren.  Private services will be held at a later date.  Words of comfort to the family can be made by visiting www.scottfuenralservices.com .  Arrangements entrusted to the Scott Funeral Home 504 W. Interlake Blvd., Lake Placid, FL 863-465-4134.