It is with mixed emotions of sorrow and profound peace that we announce the passing of Carol Ann Johnston, age 66 of Belle Fourche, who died Thursday, May 14, 2026, at the Monument Health Spearfish Hospital.

Carol was born March 6, 1960, in Deadwood, SD to Arthur and Margaret Johnston. The Johnston family moved to a variety of places while Carol was small child

Including Missouri, Kentucky, Nevada and California while her father Art worked construction. The family lived in Idaho Springs, CO for the longest before settling in Spearfish, SD in approximately 1974. Carols family started a trucking company that her brother Mike owns and operates to this day. In her childhood years, Carol was a Brownie in the Girls Scouts and played clarinet in the school band. Carol enjoyed many things in her youth, including time with friends and family, travel, various art, and photography, but the pastime she loved most was dance. She excelled as a country swing/Jitterbug dancer and attended many events with the live music and friends she loved so much.

Carol worked a variety of jobs in her life but was most proud of being a Hoist Operator for the Homestake Gold Mine. Carol spent her retirement days with her beloved cats Calie and Bella and special friends. Carol found a deep love for plants/gardens of any kind and in her later years, found a love for Christ. She attended services at her church in Belle Fourche whenever she could. Her witty sense of humor, chatty nature and stubbornness created an eventful journey in life, Carol never met a stranger.

Carol was the mother of two children: her daughter, Trish, or her” Christmas Baby” born December 12, and three years later welcomed her son, Randall, or her “Birthday Baby”, who she proclaimed was the best birthday present she ever received as they share the same birthday. Carol later welcomed her grandchild Vin. Her grandson was the “sunshine” of her life, and she could be counted upon the show her brag book of photographs of him to anyone who would take a moment to view them.

Carol lived a life that was uniquely hers. While some of her relationships throughout her life faced their undeniable challenges, ultimately her children and loved ones were blessed with the time and grace to work through differences, find forgiveness, and make amends. That chapter of healing brought peace to her family's hearts, and they are grateful for the moments of connection they shared in her final time on this earth. Trish and Randall would like to thank those that loved their mother through her life’s journey.

She is survived by her daughter, Patricia "Trish" (R.C.) Johnston of Belle Fourche; son, Randall (Thavy Em) Johnston of Fresno CA; grandson, Vin Garza of Belle Fourche; brother, Michael Johnston of Belle Fourche; Special Friend, Annie (Justin) Bush of Belle Fourche; several cousins, extended family members and many friends.

She was preceded in death by her Mother, Margie; Father, Art; Grandparents; Great Grandparents; as well as several beloved Aunts, Uncles, and Cousins.

An open house celebration will take place from 5pm to 7pm Friday, June 5, 2026 at Bowman Hall in Belle Fourche.  All are welcome to attend and share happy stories and memories, as Carol most wanted to be happy in this life!

Inurnment will take place at Bear Butte Cemetery in Sturgis, on Friday June 5th at 3pm.