J.P. Johnston, D.C., 63rd Keeler Recipient

Humble from the beginning, John Paul Johnston, sometimes referred to as J. P., always has an encouraging word and inspires all he encounters to achieve their full potential.  Never does he accept the words you can’t do something, just keep the faith and turn the crank is one of his favorite sayings – “keep on keeping on.”  Perseverance speaks volumes and yet is an understatement in relation to John Paul Johnston.  What an amazing man, one of dignity, integrity, and touching all who have the pleasure of meeting him.  Although adversity should have kept him from accomplishing most goals, he proved that he is an overcomer and once again, does not give up.

John Paul was born September 20, 1930, in Ropesville, Texas.  In 1943 the family moved to Alvin, Texas where he graduated from high school in 1948.

Immediately following graduation he joined the Army, and attended Jump Master School in Japan.  He was transferred to Korea where he served with the 111th Airborne Division in the Korean War, and among other citations was awarded a Purple Heart for being wounded in battle.  When J. P. Returned from Korea he married his high school sweetheart, Ann Marie Alexander.  They had four children, and now have eight grandchildren including two third-generation Chiropractors.  Several of the other grandchildren are considering a future in Chiropractic as well.  This is all because of his character and others longing to be “just like him."

Chiropractic all began for J. P. when he met his mentor Dr. Bryan Royce while working in a refinery.  There was no looking “back” as he attended school for basic science and then went on to earn his Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Texas Chiropractic college, which was located in San Antonio at the time.  He raced cars to support his family while attending Texas Chiropractic College.

He began his practice in Bellaire, Texas in 1958 and moved his prospering practice to a new office located in Houston, Texas in 1978.  Along with this busy practice he always found time to stay involved with his family, church, and civic activities.  No matter how busy he always had time to be charitable to those less fortunate.

During his children’s many activities, he became simply known as “the trainer” to the many people they were connected though the different sports.  From setting broken bones in the living room at home, to being available while on the field.  At church J. P. was always available to teach the Word, and away from church he would live the Word.  He was an active member of the Bellaire Chamber of Commerce and the Galleria Chamber of Commerce.

J. P. served as Secretary, President-Elect, and President of the Texas Chiropractic Association from 1982-1988.  He served all of the offices of District 11 of the Texas Chiropractic Association.  He served in all of the offices for the Texas Board of Chiropractic Examiners.  He served as a preceptor for the Texas Chiropractic College, which mentors students and later graduates of Texas Chiropractic College.

As well as being licensed as a Chiropractor, J. P. is certified in Manipulation Under Anesthesia, and has performed many of these procedures.  He is a Fellow of the International College of Chiropractic.  He is also a member of the High Country Knights of the Round Table as well as, a 32nd Degree Mason.  He has a life membership in Texas Chiropractic Association, and was Texas Chiropractic College “Alumnus of the Year” in 1985.

J. P. met and married J. J. who’s been his companion for 23 years, as well as his clinic administrator.

Some favorite past times include telling jokes, deep sea fishing, hunting, boating, and enjoying family time.

Among John Paul Johnston’s many accomplishments, and the reason for this bibliography in honoring him, he was awarded the “Keeler Plaque” in 1996.  J. P. offers his advice to those considering Chiropractic “Get there early and stay late!"