‘Devastated’: Joanne Johnston’s family pays tribute after loss of much-loved mum-of-two from Toormina on Coffs Coast
A “heartbroken” Mid-North-Coast family have paid tribute to “loving” and “supportive” mum-of-two Joanne Johnston following the 33-year-old’s tragic death.
Coffs Harbour
Don't miss out on the headlines from Coffs Harbour. Followed categories will be added to My News.
Note: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander readers are advised the following article contains the name and an image of a deceased person.
The mum of Joanne Johnston has paid tribute to her daughter following the sad discovery of the 33-year-old’s body after she was reported missing on the Coffs Coast early this month.
Pauline Johnston said she and Joanne’s other family members and friends were “devastated” to learn of the tragic death of the mother of two boys.
It comes as an online GoFundMe fundraiser has been launched to help lay Joanne to rest.
The announcement by NSW Police that Joanne had been found deceased at the weekend resulted in an outpouring of grief on the Coffs Coast and further afield in northern NSW.
Mum Pauline Johnston said on Wednesday: “Everyone’s still in shock.”
“She (Joanne) was a supportive daughter, a loving sister and a loving mum,” she said.
“She loved being a mum of two boys.”
Sister Sarah Johnston launched the GoFundMe titled In Memory of Joanne Johnston.
“We are very sad to announce a sudden tragedy of our loving Joanne,” the fundraiser reads. “Leaving a heartbroken mother and two beautiful boys.
“We are asking for help to lay her to rest and any amount of money will be appreciated.”
The page had raised $1890 of a $15,000 goal by Wednesday afternoon.
Joanne was the fourth child of 12. Shattered siblings were too shocked to provide tributes.
The Johnston family have long ties to the area and are well-known around Coffs Harbour, Sawtell and Toormina.
Joanne was last seen alive in the Coffs Harbour suburb of Toormina about 10.30pm last Tuesday. She disappeared and could not be contacted.
Police said that about midday on Sunday “the body of a woman was found in Toormina”.
“While it is yet to be formally identified, the body is believed to be that of the missing woman (Joanne Johnston),” a statement read.
Formal identification has since taken place confirming it was Joanne’s body found.
Initial inquiries indicate Joanne’s death is not suspicious in nature, but police have asked for anyone with information to phone Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
A report will be prepared for the Coroner.
Aboriginal and Islander persons can phone 13 YARN (13 92 76) for 24/7 crisis support. General helpline numbers are provided above.
Bradman Cup: Team previews and players to watch
Country NSW has produced some of the best cricketers to play the game. Ahead of this year’s Bradman Cup, we’re putting the spotlight on the best young talent from the bush.
Police allege drugs, guns, ammo linked to crime group
A man in his 60s has faced a Mid-North Coast court on a long list of drug and gun charges. Police allege they found an illicit haul linked to a criminal group.