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Colton Today
By the People, for the People
Joan Mae Johnson, 91, Remembered for Her Love of Nature and Community
The longtime Colton, South Dakota resident dedicated her life to family, faith, and the simple pleasures of bird watching and gardening.
Apr. 3, 2026 at 1:49pm
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The vibrant natural world that Joan Mae Johnson cherished will forever be remembered as a source of joy and solace.Colton TodayJoan Mae Johnson, a lifelong resident of Colton, South Dakota, passed away on February 23, 2026 at the age of 91. She was known for her deep connection to nature, her unwavering faith, and her dedication to family and community. After retiring from a career at Avon Manufacturing, Joan spent her golden years bird watching, tending to her rose garden, and finding joy in the little things.
Why it matters
Joan's story represents the quiet strength and resilience of small-town Midwestern communities, where values like hard work, kindness, and a love of the outdoors are passed down through generations. Her life serves as a reminder of the importance of embracing the simple pleasures in life and staying connected to one's roots.
The details
Born in 1934, Joan Mae Johnson spent her entire life in the Colton area, where she worked for many years at the local Avon Manufacturing facilities before retiring. In her golden years, she found great joy in birdwatching, tending to her rose garden, and connecting with her faith. Joan was preceded in death by her husband, Lyle, and two of her children, but is survived by her daughter, Pam, son, Darin, and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
- Joan Mae Johnson was born on April 12, 1934 in Colton, South Dakota.
- She passed away on February 23, 2026 at the age of 91.
The players
Joan Mae Johnson
A lifelong resident of Colton, South Dakota who dedicated her life to family, faith, and a deep connection to nature.
Lyle Johnson
Joan's late husband.
Pam Neal
Joan's daughter.
Darin Johnson
Joan's son.
Dorothy Reurink
Joan's loving sister.
What’s next
A time to greet the family will begin at 5:00 PM Friday, June 5, 2026, with a prayer service and time of sharing beginning at 5:30 PM. Location to be determined. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Colton Fire Department, Colton Cemetery, Colton Library, or the Sioux Falls Humane Society.
The takeaway
Joan Mae Johnson's life serves as a testament to the enduring power of community, faith, and a deep appreciation for the natural world. Her story reminds us to slow down, find joy in the simple pleasures, and cherish the connections that sustain us, even in the face of life's challenges.