Cathy Johnston

Cathy Johnston (née Pauley), age 60, passed away on September 16, 2025 near her cherished family cottage in Harbor Beach, Michigan. Her life was marked by a deep commitment to service, an unquenchable intellectual curiosity and a relentless enthusiasm that touched all who knew her. Born on January 30, 1965, in Taipei, Taiwan, Cathy’s early years were shaped by a childhood in East Asia, which would define her personal and professional journey. She pursued her academic passions with distinction, earning degrees from Princeton University and the University of Michigan, both in East Asian studies. She further honed her expertise through intensive Chinese language training at Middlebury College. Cathy brought joy and energy into every facet of her life. She had an indomitable spirit that radiated through her many passions. She cherished singing in choral groups and musicals, and loved belting out show tunes with her equally passionate daughters during long car rides. An avid athlete, Cathy embraced cycling, triathlons, and golfing with “Chicks with Sticks." She derived energy from and embraced the Ohana spirit through long walks along the beaches near her home in Kailua, Hawaii. She delighted in discovering local festivals and farmers markets, where she often found perfect gifts for those around her—tokens that spoke volumes about how deeply she cared. Cathy dedicated over three decades to a career in intelligence, where she became a widely recognized expert on national security and East Asia. Her work reflected not only her prodigious talents but also an unwavering commitment to mission. Colleagues admired her sharp insight, strategic mind, and tireless dedication to safeguarding national interests. Cathy is survived by her devoted husband of 37 years, Wes Johnston; daughters Allegra Johnston-Szoo and Aria Johnston; son-in-law Adam Szoo; granddaughter Maia Johnston-Szoo; father Joseph Pauley; brother Joe Pauley; sister Cecelia Pauley; and her beloved dog, Trixie. Her mother Judith Pauley preceded her in death. Those wishing to share memories, pictures or stories are encouraged to send them to cathy.johnston.memories@gmail.com. Cathy’s legacy lives on through the lives she touched—with her positivity, compassion, and joie de vivre. May her memory bring comfort to those who knew and loved her. A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday October 4th, 2025 from 3:00 PM to 4:30 PM at Potomac United Methodist Church 9908 S Glen Road, Potomac, MD. The service will also be live streamed. Reception to follow, location TBD. The service is expected to be well attended, please consider carpooling and arriving early. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Cathy's memory to the American Association of People with Disabilities at https://www.aapd.com/donate

Cathy Johnston

January 30, 1965 - September 16, 2025