Christena 'Christie' Ann Johnstone (MacDonald)

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Christena “Christie” Ann Johnstone (MacDonald), who left us peacefully on November 2, 2025.

Christie was born in Huntsville, Ontario, to Wm. “Jack” MacDonald and Chris MacDonald (MacLeod).

On April 16, 1977, Christie married the love of her life, Roy Johnstone. Together they built a home filled with love, laughter, and kindness. Though Roy predeceased her on November 4, 2011, Christie carried his love in her heart for all her days.

Christie was a woman of immense kindness, warmth, and generosity. She devoted her life to caring for others, always putting family first. Her gentle heart, steady presence, and nurturing spirit touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

A lifelong animal lover, Christie spent many years working in pet stores in Huntsville, where her compassion for animals and people alike shone through every day. She later joined Independent Grocer, where she worked for 18 years before retiring — a milestone that coincided with one of her proudest titles: Grammie.

Christie’s passion for animals extended far beyond her work. For over 30 years, she was a dedicated owner and breeder of Curly Coated Retrievers, a breed she adored and devoted herself to. She was a proud and active member of both the Muskoka District Kennel Club (MDKC) and the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC) until her retirement from breeding in 2000. Her beloved “Curlies” brought her great pride and companionship, and she cared for each of them with deep affection and respect.

Christie loved to travel and cherished her trips to Myrtle Beach with Roy, where they made countless happy memories together. They especially fell in love with the Dominican Republic, a place that reflected the warmth and joy they shared throughout their life together.

Her children, Amber (Luis) and Lucas (Monica), were her greatest joy, and she treasured every moment spent with them and their families. To her beloved grandchildren — Ellah Grace, Sofia, Isaiah, and Drake — she was their cherished Grammie, a source of endless love, laughter, and comfort. Her home was always a place of warmth, joy, and belonging.

Christie was a devoted sister to Dan (Gail) MacDonald and Kerri (Mike), and a loving sister-in-law to Anne (Dave), Tracy (Wayne), and Jennifer (Mike). She was also a much-loved Auntie Kee to Ryan (Amy), Nate (Wanda), Brittany (Sam), Megan (Kayne), Jason (Ashley), Derek (Diana), Jessi, Cody (Quenell), Taylor (Myles), and Chad. Each of them held a special place in her heart.

Christie will be deeply missed but forever remembered for her generosity, her quiet strength, and the love she shared so freely. Her spirit will live on in the hearts of her family and friends.

As per Christie’s wishes, there will be no funeral service. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Enliven Muskoka or the OSPCA Muskoka, organizations close to Christie’s heart.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the Palliative Care Team, including Dr. Harrold and Dr. Kent, as well as all of the compassionate nurses and caregivers at Huntsville District Memorial Hospital (HDMH) and Closing the Gap, for their exceptional care, support, and kindness.