Written by Bobbie Guscio
Photography courtesy of Trina Johnston

ayor-elect Hank Johnston will have to look no farther than his kitchen table for his favorite political supporter. There’s something about the saying, “behind every successful man there is a good woman.” This rings true for Trina and her husband of forty-one years, Mayor of Bluffton, Hank Johnston. She has obviously been a major source of inspiration for the Mayor as well as for the Bluffton community.

Trina is a strong southern woman with a friendly, unassuming style. She has a comfortable sense of humor and was kind enough to let Babbie get up close and personal for the Bluffton Breeze. It appears that the Bluffton community is getting a heck of a deal with Trina as Bluffton’s first lady.

Born: March 8, 1942, Kosciusko, Mississippi-also birthplace of Hank Johnston and Oprah Winfrey. Family: Husband of 41 years Hank Johnston; Daughters, JJ and Caroline; Son, James, Sons-in Law; Dan and Peter, Daughter-in law, Leigh; 5 grandchildren-Cameron, Mara, Franki, Kendall and Max. All the children and grandchildren live in the Dallas, Texas area.

Residence:
On the beautiful May River in Old Bluffton.

Education:
Graduate of Kosciusko High School and 3 semesters at Ole’ Miss.

Hobbies: Reading, a little genealogy and a little golf.

Place with the most influence on you:
I guess I would have to say my hometown, where in the 50’s, when I grew up, was a very safe and caring place. You knew most everyone, and didn’t dare misbehave because someone would tell your parents before you got home.

Which talent would you most like to have:
I would like to be able to play the piano by ear.

Your favorite book:
“Lonesome Dove” by Larry McMurtry followed by “The Prince of Tides”.

Your favorite movie:
My second favorite would have to be “To Kill a Mockingbird”, but the number one for me is “Uncle Buck” because it makes me laugh and actually has a great story underneath.

Best Present ever:
A Walter Greer painting that I look at daily and still love.

Best trip ever:
In 1997 Hank and I went to the Ryder Cup Golf Matches in Valderama , Spain, and met 3 Great Brits that have remained friends with us to this day.

Fondest memory:
I have too many to list.

One thing people may not know about you:
I am pretty good at Trivial Pursuit and I really enjoy physical work.

Favorite place to eat:
On our porch overlooking the May river, with good friends and family.

Things that you value:
I value honesty and reliability in my friends.

The reason you live in Bluffton:
The wonderful people, a wonderful river and a slower pace of life. After having lived all over the United States, we know a great place when we see it.