Spectrum - Volume 17 Issue 16 January 19, 1995 - Obituary - G. Burke Johnston, 87

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Obituary - G. Burke Johnston, 87

Spectrum Volume 17 Issue 16 - January 19, 1995

G. Burke Johnston, 87, former dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, died January 1. Johnston, who came to Virginia Tech as an English teacher in 1930, became dean of the college he was instrumental in founding when it was established in 1961. He continued to teach while he was dean.

Johnston, who was known nationally as a Shakespearean scholar, also was an expert on author Ben Johnson, and wrote two books about him. A poet, he hand-set type to print copies for friends on a home press. He also sculpted, painted, and carved wooden figurines, many of which related to stories he had read.

Johnston remained active in university life after his retirement. A student center on campus bears his name.

Johnston was a native of Tuscaloosa, Ala., and a graduate of the University of Alabama and Columbia University. He also taught at the University of Alabama.

Contributions may be made to the Virginia Tech Educational Foundation, care of University Development, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061-0336.