Stanley Johnston (1898-1969) was born in Roscommon, Michigan. He graduated from Michigan Agricultural College (now Michigan State University) in 1920 with a B.S. in Horticulture, receiving his M.S. in 1930 from that same institution. From 1920 to 1968 Johnston served as the superintendent of the South Haven Experiment Station and was appointed research professor in 1945. While at South Haven, Johnston's research focused on the development of new varieties and improvements in fruit culture, especially peaches, blueberries, apricots, raspberries, and strawberries. His major contributions included the Haven peach, the Goldcot apricot, and new strains of blueberries. Most significantly, Johnston's fruit research resulted in improved varieties which were better able to withstand Michigan weather. This, in turn, led to expansion and diversification of the Michigan fruit market.

Johnston wrote numerous published articles on his horticulture research. He was also a member of many organizations including the American Society for Horticulture Science, the International Society for Horticulture Science, the American Horticulture Society, and the American Pomological Society (of which he served as president (1946-1948).

Johnston received many awards for his work in pomological development, including the Wilder Award for outstanding service to horticulture in 1951; the Man of the Year Award granted by Michigan Frozen Food Packers Association, 1957; the Distinguished Service Award awarded by M.S.U. Alumni Association, 1958; and many more.

While in South Haven, Michigan, Johnston also took an active role in community affairs. He was a member of the Board of Education there for more than 25 years, serving as its president in 1953. He was also a member of the Hospital Board for more than 15 years, belonged to the Kiwanis Club (President and District Governor in 1937), served as Commander of American Legion Post, and was a member of the Masonic Lodge of South Haven.