A Southeast Portland neighbor whose weekly Meals on Wheels People deliveries grew into over a decade of friendship, care, and community

Every week for more than 10 years, John Hoover pulled up to the same Southeast Portland home with nutritious meals and a friendly smile. Waiting on the other side of the door was Judith Johnston — always “Mrs. Johnston” to the Hoovers — dressed neatly in a dress or skirt, always ready with a smile that made every visit a joy.

A Call to Service Sparked by Community Roots

When John first began volunteering with Meals on Wheels People in 2004, he had just gone part time at work. He and his wife, Susan, attended Moreland Presbyterian Church, where a Meals on Wheels People (then Loaves and Fishes) dining center operated — founded in 1973 thanks to the determination of a woman named Thelma Skelton.

“Thelma heard about Loaves and Fishes reaching out to churches with kitchens and dining rooms to serve meals to seniors and be a distribution center,” Susan recalls. “Thelma said, ‘We can do this,’ demonstrating that it doesn’t take a lot of people to have a huge impact. She’s one of my heroes.”

Inspired by that same spirit of service, John began volunteering as a driver, delivering meals from the center to nearby aging neighbors. “Nothing is simpler than a habit,” he says.

For years, he delivered meals on his own — including to Mr. and Mrs. Johnstons’ home.

“Mom was taking care of my dad who had a lot of health problems,” says their daughter, Jeanie Staino. “She was the sole caregiver. Having meals delivered was one less worry for her.”

A Duo on the Delivery Route

Susan began joining John on his routes during the pandemic, turning his solo routine into something they could share. “Now we’re a duo,” she says. “John is the driver, and I’m the navigator, notetaker, box checker.”

Together, they became a steady presence in the Johnstons’ lives. “Mom always had to be home on Wednesdays to receive the meals,” Jeanie says. “I doubt she ever wasn’t there.”

Support Through Loss, Recovery, and Change

After her husband’s passing in 2024, Mrs. Johnston continued to receive meals. When she fell and broke her hip, her children were relieved for the support.

“My brother, my husband and I helped out, but it was great that the meals continued to be delivered,” Jeanie says. “We were thankful for them. Mom always donated money each time the food was delivered.”

Mrs. Johnston loved her sweets — especially the desserts and Girl Scout cookies that sometimes came with her meal — and she deeply appreciated the people who brought them.

“Meals on Wheels People was a big part of her life,” Jeanie says.

A Friendship Built on Kindness and Consistency

Over the years, what began as a volunteer route became a friendship built on trust, consistency, and care. Susan called her “a Princess,” a fitting title for someone who greeted every visit with grace and warmth. “We loved her for so many reasons,” she says.

Mrs. Johnston passed away in September 2025 at the age of 87, leaving behind a home and a life filled with love, devotion, and kindness.

For John and Susan, Mrs. Johnston will always be part of their Meals on Wheels People story — a reminder of the friendships that grow from simple acts of kindness.

“We get to know the people,” John says. “You become friends with them. You want to know how they’re doing. You get that enjoyment from actually helping others. I’d miss it if I quit doing it. As long as I can, why not?”

Volunteer With Us

Every friendship like the one between the Hoovers and Mrs. Johnston begins with a simple first step. If you’re interested in delivering meals — or supporting local seniors in other ways — join us as a volunteer.