Joan L. Johnson RPH, 80, Kokomo, passed away at 10:24 PM Friday, January 6, 2012 in Howard Regional Health System. She was born April 22, 1931 in Buffalo, New York to the late J. Russell and Helen (Murray) Lowell. She married David L. Johnson on July 19, 1953, in Grace United Methodist Church; and he survives.
She was educated in the Kokomo Public Schools, graduating from Kokomo High School in 1949. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Pharmacy from Purdue University in 1953, being one of only ten women in her graduating Pharmacy class of 110. She was employed both as a full time and relief Pharmacist for Hooks, Northside Rexall Pharmacy, Hutto Drug Store and later retired from Moor's Rexall Pharmacy in 1991. She was a 50 year member of Alpha Chi Omega social sorority and was a past president of the local Alumni Club. She was a past Honored Queen of Job's Daughters and had been a member of Tri Kappa sorority. She was an avid reader. She enjoyed following politics and the history of US presidents and their families. She was a member of the American Political Item Collectors, specializing in presidential buttons.
Surviving is her husband; David L. Johnson, Kokomo, daughters; Jane A. Johnson and Jill D. Hilgemeier, both of Indianapolis, grandsons; Alexander Johnson, Chicago, and Ross Hilgemeier, Indianapolis, nieces; Jerri Gentilella, Duluth, Georgia, and Jackie Sundquist, Castle Rock, Colorado.
She was preceded in death by her parents, son; Kirk L. Johnson, infant grandson; Andrew Johnson, and her sister; Jeanne Downard.
Graveside services will be held at 10:00 AM Wednesday, January 11, 2012 at Albright Cemetery. Burial will follow. Friends may visit with the family from 4:00-8:00 PM Tuesday, January 10, 2012 at Ellers Mortuary Webster Street Chapel, 3400 South Webster Street. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to the American Cancer Society, Leukemia Society & Lymphoma Society, or to a charity of your choice, envelopes will be provided at the mortuary. The family also wants to give a special thanks to the staff at Century Villa Health Care & Rehabilitation and the third floor staff at Howard Regional Health System.
