Joanne Johnson

SHELDON - It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Joanne Lee Johnson, our beloved matriarch, whose sunset was May 2, 2026, at the age of 85, surrounded by her loving family.

Her sunrise was September 22, 1940 in St. Albans, the daughter of the late Harold & Veronica (Columb) Harvey.

Joanne was the matriarch of her family and the steady center that held everyone together. She was a cherished mother, grandmother, and friend. She lived a life filled with love, resilience, and compassion, forever leaving a mark on all of us who were fortunate enough to know her.

She was a fighter, facing life's challenges with unwavering strength and grace. Though her journey was often hard, she turned those trials into triumphs, creating a beautiful life for her family. Her ability to keep everyone together was nothing short of remarkable. She had an innate gift for nurturing, caring not only for her beloved sons, but also for countless others who crossed her path.

She was an excellent cook. Whether it was preparing dinner from a turtle that Ronald brought home or crafting a beautiful wedding cake, Joanne's culinary talents were a reflection of her creativity. She took pride in caring for others, always devoting her time and energy to those in need, especially the elderly.

Her compassion extended to animals; she had a soft spot for all creatures, from birds to beef cows. Cardinals held a special place in her heart, as did her pet pigeon years ago. Joanne shared her love freely and abundantly, a gift that all of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren will forever cherish. Joanne gave her love freely; her love was wide and unconditional, and that grace is part of what made her a saint in the eyes of those who knew her best.

She is survived by her husband Ronald Johnson, they were married in June of 1960. Her beloved boys, Patrick Johnson and his wife Tina, Shawn Johnson and his wife Brandy, James Johnson and his wife Crystal, and Jon Johnson and his significant other Ronda; grandchildren, Chad Johnson and his wife Miranda, Corey Johnson and his fiancé Lea Burns, Shantel Daudelin, Amanda Ainsworth and her husband Jake, Shauna Johnson, Adam Johnson, Taylor Johnson, Paige Johnson and her fiancé Wyatt Boyce, Hannah Conley (who spoke with her grandmother everyday) and her husband Calvin, and Jake Johnson and his fiancé Shelby Carr; great grandchildren, Alivia, Harper, Zephyr, Zion, Clayton, Aurora, and Freya; her siblings, Judith (Harvey) Bussard and her husband Norman, James Harvey and his wife Sherie-Jo; siblings-in-law, Larry Draper, and Michael Johnson and his wife Therese; and many nieces & nephews. In addition to her parents, Joanne was predeceased by her sister, Janet Draper; in-laws, Jake & Bertha Johnson; brothers-in-law, Larry Johnson, and Gary Johnson; and nephews, Jeremy Johnson, and Scott Bussard.

In keeping with Joanne's wishes, there will be no public services for her.

For those who wish, contributions in Joanne's memory may be made to Franklin County Animal Rescue, 30 Sunset Meadows, St. Albans, VT 05478.

Condolences, photos and favorite memories may be shared through www.gossfs.com