Eleanor Johnston
Class of 1957
Family and faith are the words that epitomize the life of Eleanor Johnston, a 1957 graduate of Big Piney High School. It is however, her dedication to the Labarge community, to the Sublette County School District and to the many students that made their ways through the doors of Labarge Elementary school that earns her the honor of induction into the Big Piney Hall of Fame as a Distinguished Alumni.
As a community leader, Eleanor was among the group that was instrumental in getting the Town of LaBarge incorporated. Eleanor also served on a committee that established the LaBarge Fire Department. As the director of the July 4th Festival in its early years, she played a pivotal role in the development of the LaBarge Roping Arena where these festivities are celebrated each year. Needing to provide activities for the youth of the community, Eleanor was responsible for starting drill and cheer groups, (Go Eagles) as well as a local 4H branch and was a major supporter of Boys State and Girl State retreats. She continuously worked to better the little part of the world in which she lives.
For more than forty years, Eleanor worked for the school system in Labarge. Her duties ranged from a bus driver in her early years to the many years she spent behind the desk as the secretary for LaBarge Elementary. In addition to her office duties, she always ensured that each play, concert, Mother’s Day Tea and all the other events were enjoyable for all who attended. After four generations of kids, she claims there was never a “bad” kid, maybe a naughty one or two but not “bad” that came through the doors at LaBarge elementary. She met each one with a smile, perhaps a breakfast if needed or whatever else her many students needed to meet the day.
After a few semesters at University of Wyoming, Eleanor returned home and following the death of her mother became the matriarch of the Stepp family. She helped raise her brothers and sister as well as her own four daughters. She established and maintains all the family traditions and celebrations to keep the Stepp Family History alive. Great pride was felt as the Stepp family was inducted into the Wyoming Cowboy Hall of Fame recognizing their work and importance within their community. Eleanor Johnston has embraced her matriarch role and has made sure it was built on a solid foundation of God and love.