Frank William Johnston

Frank William Johnston, age 57 formerly of Amarillo, died at home in Prince Frederick, Maryland on November 6, 2024.

A memorial service to honor his life will be held on Saturday, December 14, 2024 at 2:00 PM at Schooler Funeral Home, 4100 South Georgia. The Rev. Bob Mason will officiate.

Frank was born in Germany on April 28, 1967. Frank graduated from Alamo High School in 1985. He enlisted in the US Navy immediately following graduation. He would go on to serve for the next 18 years. While in the navy he was presented with opportunity to go work at Phoenix International Holdings Underwater Search and Recovery. Frank flourished in his new role, as sidescan sonar technician and lead electronic operator and became an important part of a dynamic team. 

He had the opportunity to be involved in several high-profile assignments, including searching for, and in some cases recovering, components of Air France Flight 447, Malaysian Airlines Flight 370 (MH 370), the space shuttle Columbia, and the SS El Faro. Frank also made several dives to and into the wreck of the RMS TITANIC and received special recognition for his efforts. Throughout his life and career he was able to travel worldwide and enjoyed every adventure he faced. 

Frank had a brilliant mind from a very young age and he loved a challenge. He was fascinated with role playing games, books, as well as being a firearms enthusiast and loved shooting with friends and family. His presence will be greatly missed.

He was preceded in death by his step-father, Jimmy L. Taylor.

Frank is survived by his mother, Johanna Taylor; his father, Johnny D. Johnston a sister, Johanna Strong; his brother Jimmy Taylor and wife Cristal; and his close friends Scott Woodard and Eddie Beale.