Sarah M. Johnson

Sarah “Sally” M. Johnson, age 78, of Sparta, passed away on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, at Mayo Clinic Health Systems in La Crosse. Sally was born on April 13, 1946, to J. Edward and S. Elizabeth “Betty” Johnson. She was the oldest of four children, lovingly known by her siblings Rachel E., John J., and Amy L. Johnson.

Sally graduated from West Beaver Creek School and Sparta High School in 1964. She went on to attend the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse for one year before transferring to Vernon County Teachers College in Viroqua, WI, where she earned her degree. She began her teaching career in Kendall, WI, as a third-grade teacher for one year before returning to UWL to complete her education. Sally later worked as an instructor in the UWL Geography Department.

In her younger years, Sally had a deep connection to farm life. She raised turkeys and registered collie dogs, selling many puppies to loving homes. She was an active member of the West Beaver Creek 4H, where she later served as the assistant dairy leader and participated in showing cattle and sheep at the county fair.

Sally continued her life on the family farm, north of Sparta, after the death of her parents, working alongside her brother John and sister Amy. She also worked at the Monroe County Animal Shelter, where she touched many lives with her dedication. Sally was a long-time member of the Congregational United Church of Christ in Sparta, where she served as secretary for the Women's Fellowship Board for many years. She was also a trusted trustee and held various positions on numerous church committees.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the staff at Mayo Hospital and Soldier’s Grove Health Care for the compassionate care they provided Sally, to Chaplain Priscilla for her comforting words and prayers during this difficult time, and Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation of Sparta.

A graveside memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, April 9, 2025 at Mt. Hope Cemetery, Sparta, with Pastor Priscilla Hemmersbach officiating. Online condolences may be offered at www.schanhoferfh.com.

Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation in Sparta is assisting the family with arrangements.

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