Following his death, Johnston was commemorated in several ways, including a memorial fund established in his name at the University of Washington to fund graduate-level research. Two volcano observatories were established and named after him: one in Vancouver, Washington, and another on the ridge where he died. Johnston's life and death are featured in several documentaries, films, docudramas and books. The most recent is the biography of his life, authorized by his family, and an effort to overshadow inaccurate depictions of Johnston. Informed by his mentors, thesis advisor, friends, ex-colleagues, as well as his own writings, "A Hero on Mount St. Helens: The Life and Legacy of David A. Johnston", was released by University of Illinois Press on May 18, 2019. The author is Melanie Holmes.