Sally Johnson 01/20/2026

Sally Ann Johnson passed away peacefully at her home on January 20, 2026, following a prolonged illness. Her presence, strength, and unwavering love will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
Sally was born on September 14, 1942, in Willmar, Minnesota, to Joseph Merlin and Wilma Hilda (Schumacher) Daugherty. She graduated from Willmar High School in 1960 and went on to attend and graduate from the Minnesota School of Business. On August 16, 1962, she married Stephen B. Johnson. Together, they built a life rich in family, cherished friendships, and many memorable adventures.
Sally and Steve spent the first few years of their marriage in Fairbanks, Alaska, where Steve served in the military. From there, they raised their three children in Burnsville, Minnesota, and later returned to their hometown of Willmar, Minnesota, to continue raising their family. Sally was fiercely devoted to those she loved and took great pride in caring for her family. She especially cherished her grandchildren, whom she spoiled without hesitation. Though known for her tough exterior, Sally had a heart of gold and would always go above and beyond for those she loved.
After retiring, Steve and Sally moved to Lake Pokegama in Grand Rapids, Minnesota, where Sally often complained—good-naturedly—about the cold. Despite that, the lake became the setting for many years of treasured family memories. Each year, she eagerly anticipated her time in New Smyrna Beach, Florida, where she could escape the winter chill, enjoy the ocean, spend time with family and friends, and discover new restaurants.
Throughout her life, Sally endured chronic illness and daily pain, yet she never allowed it to keep her from caring for her family. She was an excellent cook who took great joy in preparing meals for those she loved. A talented seamstress, she poured her creativity into sewing and embroidery, sharing her handmade treasures with friends and family. Sally was a devoted Minnesota Twins fan and cherished watching baseball games alongside her grandsons. She delighted in wandering through farmers markets and held a lifelong tenderness for animals, always making room in her heart and home for her beloved dogs.
Sally is survived by her loving husband of 63 years, Steve Johnson; her daughters, Kara (Jon) Jacobson and Kelly (Chris) Gandrud; her son, Michael “Joe” Patrick Johnson; and her four beloved grandchildren, Brandon Gandrud, Blake Gandrud, Leigha Jacobson, and Hannah Jacobson. She is also survived by her brother, Dr. John “Jack” Michael Daugherty, DDS and his wife Judy; brother-in-law Michael Johnson; niece Shawn (Jeff) Och; and nephews Patrick (Kelly) Daugherty and Spencer (Stephanie) Johnson.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Merlin and Wilma Daugherty; her father- and mother-in-law, Gustov Bernard “Barney” and Doris Johnson; her sister-in-law, Patricia Johnson; and many beloved aunts, uncles, and cousins.
A Celebration of Life service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, March 6, 2026, at Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services 805 E Division Street River Falls, Wisconsin, with visitation one hour prior to the service. A lunch celebration will follow. A private internment will take place at Fort Snelling National Cemetery in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Adoray Home Health and Hospice for their compassionate care and dedication. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Adoray Home Health and Hospice at adoray.com.
Sally’s life was defined by love, loyalty, and quiet strength, and her memory will forever be a source of comfort and inspiration.