The sudden death of Dr. Lawrence, “Doc” Johnston, a Troy native and longtime veterinarian in Troy and Pike County, on April 9, 2025, was met by shock and sadness,

“Lawrence will be greatly missed by the extended Troy/Pike County community. The care he provided to animals and the people who loved and depended on them won’t soon be forgotten,” said Troy Mayor Jason A. Reeves.

“Lawrence was my first football coach and was always someone who seemed larger than life to me. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his beloved family, friends, and the many he helped and made a positive impact on in our community in which he was deeply rooted.”  

Steve Winton, senior pastor at Troy First United Methodist Church, said following Larry Johnston’s surrender to Jesus his life radically changed. 

“He developed a deep desire to know the one who had saved him from the darkness that plagued him and brought him into God’s light,” Winton said. “His thirst for truth found in scripture guided him and helped bring about the transformation others were able to see. He will be greatly missed as a brother in Christ and as a friend.”