Nancy Johnson taught exercise classes at the Roscoe YMCA

Nancy Carol Johnson was born on March 2, 1936 in Spooner, Wisconsin, the daughter of Ralph “Buster” Sells and Doris (Hegna) Sells. She grew up in Rockford, Illinois and graduated from East High School, class of 1954, where she was an honor roll student and secretary of her class.

Nancy passed away peacefully in her daughter’s home in Roscoe on her 88th birthday, Saturday, March 2, 2024, surrounded by her family.

Nancy married the love of her life, Frank Johnson, on September 15, 1956, in Rockford. They raised their four children in Rockford and in Roscoe.

Nancy was a homemaker for many years and later worked at Rock Valley College for more than 25 years. Upon her retirement, she became an exercise instructor at the Roscoe YMCA and led numerous classes for seniors.

She was a member of Central Christian Church in Beloit. Nancy enjoyed physical activity, including golf, dancing, and exercise classes. Nancy and Frank spent annual summer vacations in northern Wisconsin with family at many lakes and resorts. They loved numerous dachshunds over the years, including their last, Annie.

Nancy is survived by her her children, Laura (Greg) Stewart, Craig (Carla) Johnson, Julie (John) Poli, and Jeff Johnson; grandchildren, Zach (Miranda) Stewart, Rachel (Tom) Monson, Ashely (Larry) Johnson, Kelsey (Brett) Johnson, Nick Poli, Matt Johnson, Tyler (Jess) Pease, Michael (Hayley) Johnson and Hannah (Sean) Valentine; great-grandchildren, Alexis, Eli, Ben, Nora, Reed, Clair, Isla, Finnley, Mayva, and Brayden; sisters, Jean Fiorenza, Joanne Petterson; brother, Jerry Sells; and numerous nieces and nephews. 

She was predeceased by her parents; her husband, Frank; brothers-in-law, Frank Fiorenza and Frank Petterson.

Memorial service will be at 11 a.m. Friday, March 22, 2024, at Delehanty Funeral Home, 401 River Lane, Loves Park, IL, with visitation from 10 a.m. to service time. Cremation rites accorded. In lieu of flowers, a memorial will be established.

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