Elizabeth “Ziba” Smith Johnston was born to Jeff and Sara Smith of Searcy, Arkansas, on January 9, 1954. Growing up in Bald Knob, Arkansas, she enjoyed cheerleading, singing, and being with her friends from Water Tank Hill. After graduating Bald Knob High School, Ziba attended Arkansas State University. There she joined Alpha Omicron Pi where she met many lifelong friends. After transferring to Hendrix College, she graduated with a degree in Education.

In 1978, Ziba married childhood friend David L. Johnston. She was a devoted wife and the two were married for 44 years. Together they had Carrie, Jeff David (JD), and Erin. Ziba considered the title “Momma” her highest calling and she greatly enjoyed this as her work until her children were out of the home.

Throughout her life, Ziba was active in her community, volunteering in her children’s schools and at church. She enjoyed serving Communion and acting as a Stephen Minister in the United Methodist Church.

Ziba’s love for nurturing children led to a Master’s in School Counseling from Western Michigan University and her subsequent 23 years as a beloved school counselor, mostly spent with the students at Jack D. Johnson Elementary (Carroll ISD) in Southlake, Texas. She especially loved greeting her students each morning at the friendship bench and teaching about the importance of kindness. Her impact on the community is immeasurable and her absence is especially felt by her students and fellow staff members.

In her free time, Ziba could be found spending time with God, nurturing her beloved garden, playing with her grandchildren, and walking her dogs. She was a faithful companion in life and could often be found talking for hours with one of her many lifelong friends. Ziba had the gift of making each and every person feel loved, heard, and appreciated. Most of all, Ziba cherished her loved ones, including her husband David, her children, Carrie (Jeremy), JD, and Erin (Jordan), her precious grandchildren Jack, Laney and Smith, as well as her brother and sister-in-law, Dan and Diane Smith, her nieces, nephews and cousins.

A memorial service is scheduled for 1pm on November 5th, 2022, at White’s Chapel United Methodist Church in Southlake, Texas. In lieu of gifts or flowers, please consider donating to one of Ziba’s favorite organizations, Christ's Haven for Children in her honor.

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