Adam ‘Addie’ Johnston: 'One of Cockenzie’s best'

Living as he did to an active old age, he saw huge societal and political changes during his lifetime, many of which he engaged with actively.

Addie was born into a fishmonger family in Cockenzie on April 8, 1934.

He was an only child and his parents, spotting his academic talent, wanted Addie to get the best of eduction and sent him to George Heriot’s School in Edinburgh.

Life at home was lived in the context of Cockenzie folk and Chalmers Memorial Church. As a youngster he took an active part in the church and the boys’ brigade. Later he became the BB officer.

He did not stay on to do Highers but studied part-time and then moved on to the School of Art and Architecture at the University of Edinburgh.

Such was his parents’ commitment to his progress that they gave him the ‘big bedroom’ in the house at Winton Park so that Addie could have a ‘studio’ in which to work.

He grew up during the war and was one of the last of the generation to do two years’ National Service. Immediately prior to his National Service, he married his sweetheart, Nanette Paul, from Morrison’s Haven.

He was posted to Oswestry to serve in the Royal Artillery as a second-lieutenant.

When Prince Andrew was born, Addie commanded the 21-gun salute in Hyde Park.

He recalled his commanding officer saying to him, “Ah, Johnston, you’re a Scot – you’re in charge of the officers’ country dancing”!

The same man remarked that Addie’s accent was rather broad.

“Oh!” said Addie, “where do you come from”?

“Edinburgh,” came the reply!

On leave, he heard that there was a boys’ brigade parade at Chalmers Church and he thought he would wear his RA dress uniform.

One of the boys turned to him and asked, “Addie, have you joined the Salvation Army?”

Soon after completing his National Service, he found employment in architectural work with Crudens of Musselburgh.

And within a few years, the family grew: two daughters, Elizabeth and Jane, and a son, John.

During this time, other themes were beginning to develop in the mind of the young man.

He made a commitment to the Scottish National Party which was maturing into a lusty political infant under the guidance of local economist, David Simpson, national Convener William Wolfe and, of course, Winnie Ewing.

Addie served as local branch chair and was rewarded with the election of his friend in Longniddry, George Pollock, as local councillor.

Years passed and Addie set up his own business with architectural colleague Colin Stewart.

Their premises were where Haddington’s John Gray Centre now stands. When Colin retired, Addie continued his work, basing himself at Seton Mains.

Addie led a very full social life. The church at Chalmers was always number one. He became an elder and was, of course, made fabric convener.

The children went to Longniddry Primary School and Addie was active in the parents’ association.

Likewise, he took a very active role in the Rotary Club.

He was a keen golfer, loved his touring caravan and building his model railway.

Their house at Seton Mains was often the centre for generous hospitality and parties.

He was a loving father and support to his wider family and grand-children; Addie especially loved his trips to New England to visit his older daughter and family for Thanksgiving.

Those in the wider local community always valued his sage advice and patient listening ear.

During his last year, he found John Bellany Day Centre, Port Seton, a great help and support.

He was one of Cockenzie’s best and his many friends will count themselves blest to have known this wise man. Rest in peace Addie.

He died peacefully at home on November 9.

The funeral will be held at Chalmers Memorial Church on December 5 at 10.30am, then 11.30am at Prestonpans Cemetery.

The funeral reception takes place at Chalmers church hall afterwards.

Family flowers only please – donations may be made on the day to John Bellany Centre.

Peter MacKenzie