Johnstone Family (2008)

The first Johnstone to settle in Bartlesville was William Johnstone. A successful businessman, he married Lillie Armstrong. Their three children, Rilla, Nellie, and Leo were raised in Bartlesville.

William Johnstone helped found the first two general stores in the area and started businesses in walnut lumber and cattle ranching. Johnstone also helped to establish the Bartlesville National Bank, the First National Bank in Dewey, and the Bank of Nowata. A lifelong supporter of education, he was president of the school board from its creation until he stepped down in 1908.

William’s son Leo and his wife Pauline had one son, Leo Johnstone. He was a humble man of high integrity and high intellect and said many times that the most important part of life and business was relationships. Leo and his wife Mildred had two children, Bill and Jane.

Leo worked for Phillips Petroleum Company and was Vice Chairman of the board when he retired. A member of the Delaware Tribe, he worked on the Delaware Indian Tribe’s Business Committee. He was instrumental in creating OK Mozart, presiding as its first chairman. Leo was named Mr. Centennial by the Bartlesville Centennial Committee, served on the board of the Frank Phillips Foundation, and was an elder at Good Shepherd Presbyterian Church.

Today, Bill and Jane Johnstone carry on the family’s tradition of service and generosity.