I Miss You a Lot and I Love You a Million: Family ties

Johnnie maintained strong ties with his Marston siblings, bridging the distance through visits to Miami, while they reciprocated by journeying to Georgia. These family reunions were more than mere vacations; they were cherished moments of shared laughter, stories, and love.

Among his siblings, Evelyn and her husband Bill held a special place in Johnnie’s heart. Their connection ran deep, intertwining with the lives of their children: June, Billy, and Bobby. Together, they wove a tapestry of family bonds that transcended miles and years.

Lucile and Johnnie’s sister Evelyn in Miami

Johnnie with his sisters Evelyn and Kate in Forest Park
(ca. 1986)

Vacations were another highlight in Johnnie’s life. He took his family to Panama City, Florida, where they built sandcastles, chased waves, and created memories. The majestic Gatlinburg mountains in Tennessee also witnessed their laughter and adventures. Johnnie’s cars were his pride; they gleamed with meticulous care before every road trip.

Johnnie and Lucile on a Florida vacation visiting family (July 1973).
Both were in good health and Randy feels this was probably some of the
happiest times of their lives.

And then there were the annual fishing trips. Randy, wide-eyed and eager, accompanied his father from ages 8 to 14. It became a cherished tradition—a father-son bonding experience. Sometimes, Randy’s friend would tag along, adding to the joy. Deep sea fishing was their escape, a chance to reel in stories and laughter as they cast their lines into the vast ocean.

Johnnie

Johnnie and Randy

Johnnie had a soft spot for Christmas. He loved that time of the year. As the family gathered in their home for the holiday, Johnnie would don a red sweater and play Christmas music. The record player would come alive with the sounds of Bing Crosby singing White Christmas, Elvis singing Blue Christmas, and Nat King Cole singing The Christmas Song or O Holy Night. Step into the kitchen and you would find Lucile busy baking sausage cheese balls and a favorite lemon cake to share with loved ones.