Joan Marie Johnson

Our beloved mother, Joan Marie Johnson, 96, passed away peacefully on December 11, 2023, in Orem, Utah. She was the daughter of George and Nena Smith, and sister to Barbara Jean. She was born in Glendale, California in 1927 and spent her childhood years in Burbank, California. In her junior year of high school, her family moved to Glendale, where she attended high school and college. Growing up, she loved dancing, playing the piano, cheerleading, and being involved in school activities. While attending college, she was set up on a date with her best friend’s brother, Maurice (Morry) Johnson, who had just returned from serving in World War II. That first date turned into a romance which led to a wedding on December 7, 1946. This marriage lasted 67 years, and was a testament to their love and commitment to each other and their family. They were blessed with five children.

After marriage, her husband re-enlisted in the army, and his military service required frequent moves: Georgia, Virginia, Illinois, Germany, California, and finally Hawaii, where Joan lived for the next 53 years.  She moved to Orem, Utah in 2016.  Her husband retired from the military in 1968, and together they formed a sales business called the Joan M. Johnson Co. She was the chief salesperson. At sale’s association meetings she was often the only female. She worked very hard, and the company became immensely successful. She also opened her home year-round and found time to be a generous hostess and tour guide to the many friends and family who came to visit the islands. As their children grew up and moved away, Joan and Morry began traveling the world. However, for Joan, her favorite visits were always with her children and grandchildren.

She is survived by her children: John (Connie) Johnson, Jami (Jim) Schwartz, Kathy Anderson, Michelle (Mike) Preuss, 20 grandchildren, 59 great-grandchildren, and 11 great-great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband Maurice Johnson, and son Maurice Johnson Jr.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, Dec. 16, 2023, at 4:00 p.m. at Sundberg Olpin Mortuary, 495 South State St. Orem, Utah, with a viewing held from 3:00-3:45 p.m. prior to the services at the mortuary.

Her family would like to thank all those who brought so much joy and love to her life. We would also like to thank the wonderful caregivers at the north Orem Covington Senior Living Center for the kindness and exceptional care they provided to Joan.

Condolences may be expressed to the family on this page.

For those unable to attend the services they will be streamed starting at 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 16th via Facebook Live at the following link: https://www.facebook.com/sundbergolpinfuneralhome