Marcella Goldsmith Johnston

Marcella “Gomie/Cellie” Goldsmith Johnston, born on 19 August 1935, in Charleston West Virginia, lived a life marked by compassion, athleticism, and community. She completed her early schooling in West Virginia and went on to earn a nursing degree from Duke University in 1957, beginning a decades-long career dedicated to caring for others.

Marcella’s life took her across the world, and she carried the love of travel and discovery with her wherever she went. She cherished her family deeply: a beloved sister Mary, a devoted brother Bill, four cherished children, grandchildren and recently two new great grandchildren.

In her later years, Marcella settled in Pendleton, Oregon, where she met her soulmate, Melvin Yudovich. An avid athlete, she was well known in the community for riding her bike up South Gate Hill to swim at the RAC, embodying her dedication to maintaining fitness in her later years.

For a 35 year career, Marcella was a nurse for Community Hospital, the State Hospital and St. Anthony Hospital. Marcella also practiced many years as a home health care nurse and Hospice volunteer. She was an enthusiastic recycler, and generously donated blood whenever possible donating more than 20 gallons of blood. She loved dogs, chocolate milkshakes, and Sudoku puzzles, finding joy in the simple pleasures of everyday life.

Marcella joined God on 14 January 2026. Thank you to the Ashley Manor and Engrace Hospice care teams for taking great care of her in her final days.
Donations to Hospice Care can be made in her honor.