Dr. Johnny Eugene Gaston Sr.

Dr. Johnny E. Gaston was born to the late Helen and John Gaston on August 9, 1948, in Charlotte, NC. He grew up in Columbus, Ohio, but spent summers in Charlotte with his maternal grandparents, Jessie Lee and James Edmonds, and his paternal grandparents, Paul and Sarah Gaston. Johnny graduated from East High School and was a strong football player. During his summers in high school, Johnny worked as a brick mason alongside his father down in the south and later as a lifeguard, showcasing his strong work ethic and dedication to his family. However, this hard physical labor heavily influenced his path toward medicine. Johnny earned a full football scholarship to Central State University in Wilberforce, Ohio, where he played as a safety. He completed his Bachelor’s degree in Biology while balancing his passion for sports and academics. After college, he was recruited into the medical field and trained at the University of Tole College of Medicine, where he became a physician. He completed his residency in pediatrics at United Hospital Medical Center, Children’s Hospital, Newark, New Jersey. As a board-certified pediatrician, Dr. Gaston dedicated over 40 years to serving the Fayetteville community and surrounding areas. At a time when few providers accepted Medicaid, he was the only pediatrician in town who did, offering compassionate care to some of the most underserved and impoverished areas. His office, located on Murchison Road beside Rhudy's Jewelry Showroom, became a haven for families in need. Dr. Gaston was renowned for his excellence as a physician and his playful, humorous bedside manner. He used toys, puppets, and even funny voices to put his young, often vulnerable patients and their families at ease. His meticulous attention to detail allowed him to solve the most challenging cases, often noticing subtle signs others might overlook, and he was deeply attuned to when a child’s environment might be unsafe. A passionate advocate for education and research, Dr. Gaston mentored countless pre-medical students, medical students, and residents, inspiring them with his love of learning and dedication to pediatrics. He continually expanded his knowledge by attending medical conferences and being an active member of the Old North State Medical Society and the National Medical Association. Dr. Gaston was not only a dedicated pediatrician but also an accomplished author. In the 1980s, he wrote his book, The AIDS Panic, for his community. During this time, AIDS was new, often misunderstood, and surrounded by fear. Dr. Gaston addressed the taboo topic head-on, consolidating a vast amount of misinformation so that his community could access the same accurate knowledge scientists had. He tackled the unknown by breaking down the complexities of this devastating disease, putting out sources of panic, and shedding light on the facts. Through his book, Dr. Gaston clarified the origins, transmission, chances of survival, and myths surrounding this new disease, providing vital information that empowered the community and offered comfort through knowledge. His work was a resource for physicians and patients alike, offering recommendations on approaching the various obstacles posed by the disease. His book was even used as a curriculum book at Fayetteville State University for some time. He was known for his laid-back demeanor, always approachable and genuine, never pretentious or boastful. Unlike the stereotypical image of a physician, he carried himself with a quiet confidence and unassuming nature that put everyone around him at ease, making him not just healer but a trusted friend to many. Johnny was naturally curious and adventurous, always eager to ask questions about everything and embrace new opportunities to learn. He had a knack for connecting with others through his genuine interest in their stories. On weekends, he often took spontaneous trips to Myrtle Beach and delighted in discovering new restaurants and trying different cuisines. Swimming was one of his lifelong passions, hence why he loved the beach and was an avid advocate for water safety. He taught all his children and nephews how to swim, instilling a love for the water. His dedication to this skill inspired his oldest son to become a lifeguard, following in his footsteps. He also enjoyed jogging and staying active, often spending time at the driving range playing golf. One of his proudest achievements was earning his pilot’s license. He owned a private plane, frequently flying to destinations like the beach, combining his love for adventure and the joy exploration. His love for music was undeniable. Though he never considered himself an expert, he practiced piano regularly and often sang, bringing joy to those around him. He would play for the family whenever they could tolerate his performances, always with a playful spirit. His passion for the arts left a lasting impression on his children, all three of whom followed in his footsteps by learning to play instruments and becoming involved in the arts. Truly a Renaissance man, he embraced creativity and a lifelong appreciation for culture and expression. Johnny is preceded in death by his parents and grandparents, as mentioned previously, as well as his aunt Sarah B. Johnson and his uncle Charles Gaston. Dr. Gaston is survived by his loving wife, Ruth King Gaston; their son, Johnny Eugene Gaston Jr.; and their daughter, Janai Elizabeth Gaston. He is also survived by his daughter, Dr. Jasmine Elizabeth Gaston-Johnson, and his cherished granddaughter, Journey Annabell Johnson. He leaves behind his beloved younger sister, Dr. Jessie Rochelle Gaston, a doctorate in nursing; his nephews, Antwan Eugene Bush, Johnathan Boyd, Joshua Boyd, and Jacoby Boyd; his cousins, Sanita Sims and Paul Gaston, Calbie "Cookie" Crawford-Gaston along with many loving cousins and several children and grandchildren he considered his own. Johnny will be deeply missed, and his legacy of curiosity, dedication to serving the underserved, and passion for medicine and culture will live on in all who were fortunate to know him

Dr. Johnny Eugene Gaston Sr.

August 9, 1948 - December 12, 2024