Joan J. Ruterbories, 80, Celina, died at 4:20 p.m. Sept. 1, 2013, at St. Rita's Medical Center in Lima.

She was born Aug. 21, 1933, in Neligh, Neb., to Harold and Melissa Bare Johnson. On Dec. 26, 1963, she married Joseph Duane Ruterbories at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Norfolk, Neb., and he died in April 1995.

She is survived by numerous nieces and nephews, including godchildren, Paula "Jeanie" Rockwood-Rush, Wilhelmina "Willie" Klosterman, Delores Rockwood, Al J. (Pam) Rockwood, Robert (Malissa) Rockwood, Douglas Johnson, Harold Johnson, Nighram Johnson, Phyllis Johnson and Melissa Barbre.

She was preceded in death by two brothers, Nighram Johnson and Marvin Johnson; two sisters, Dolores Rockwood and Phyllis Johnson; and nephew and godson, Paul "Joe" Rockwood.

She was a graduate of Neligh High School.

She was a farm wife and had also worked as a nursing assistant. Following the death of her beloved husband, she moved to Celina to be closer to family. She eventually became a resident at Celina Manor Nursing Home.

She was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Norfolk and Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Celina. Her favorite pastimes were crocheting and spending time with her family.

Rites are 10:30 a.m. Thursday at Miller-Long & Folk Funeral Home, High Street Chapel, St. Marys, the Rev. Alfons Minja officiating. Burial will follow at Laurel Hill Cemetery in Neligh.

Calling is 9-10:30 a.m. Thursday at the funeral home.

Condolences may be left at www.millerfuneralhomes.net.