Joyce Ilene Johnson

Joyce Ilene Johnson, 96, of Sun City, Arizona, passed away on August 29, 2026. She was born to Fred and Eva Wilts on September 19, 1929, the fifth of six children, and attended school in Archer, IA.

Joyce’s life was marked by steady dedication and a willingness to lend a hand. She worked hard on the family farm and also helped other farm families, offering her time and effort in the practical, unassuming ways that mattered most.

She found joy in simple pleasures and shared moments - roller skating and dancing, evenings of Pinochle and other card games with friends, and the enjoyment of shopping. Music held a special place in her life; she played hymns on the piano, learning by ear, and bringing a quiet comfort through the familiar melodies she loved.

In 1948, she married Henry Reekers. Together they welcomed five children, and later divorced. On February 14, 1986, Joyce married Richard Johnson at The Little Brown Church in Nashua, IA. They resided in Humboldt, IA before moving to Surprise, AZ. After Richard’s passing in 2017, Joyce moved into senior living.

Joyce is survived by four children, Patricia(Kerry) Spaur of Newton, IA, Barbara(Ben) Lewis of Sun City, AZ, Roxanne Umbenhauer(Mick) of Payson, AZ, and Todd Reekers of Fort Dodge, IA; fourteen grandchildren; thirty-two great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband Richard; son Vaughn Reeker; granddaughter Tami Beebe Summers; sisters Harriet Reimers, Alvina Van Heuvelen, Evelyn Postma, and Maryann Reekers; and brother Fred Wilts.