Joanne B. Johnston, 83, a resident of Churubusco, passed away at 7 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 11, 2015, at her home following a brief illness.

Joanne was born in Fort Wayne on Jan. 6, 1932, a daughter of Luther K. and Opal G. (Cripe) Johnston. She graduated from Churubusco High School in 1950 and was a lifelong resident of Churubusco.

As a young woman she worked in the office of Fort Wayne Pipe and Supply Company for nine years, and retired in 1983 as a freight clerk in the accounting department at International Harvester in Fort Wayne after 22 years.

Known throughout the area for her extensive collection of dolls, she also enjoyed crocheting, knitting, and all types of needle work. She was a member of the Churubusco United Methodist Church.

The surviving relatives include her sister: Karen Dennison, Churubusco; two brothers: Kenneth G. (Martha) Johnston, Kendallville; and Jack. J. (Melba) Johnston, Great Falls, Mont.; five nieces and two nephews.

Her parents preceded her in death.

Graveside services will be held at 2 p. m. Friday, Aug. 14, at the Eel River Cemetery, south of Churubusco. Rev. Corinne Boruff-Stucker, pastor of Churubusco United Methodist Church, will officiate, and interment will follow.

At Joanne’s request, there will be no calling hours. Sheets and Childs Funeral Home in Churubusco is in charge of the arrangements.

The family requests that memorials be directed to Churubusco United Methodist Church, Churubusco, or Cancer Services of Northeast Indiana, Fort Wayne.