She died Oct. 23, 2004, in Albuquerque, N.M.

Born June 20, 1930, in Livingston, Mont., she was the daughter of William and Ruth (Ponath) Hughes; and, at age 12, moved with her parents to Sheridan, where they started Hughes Grocery. She graduated from Sheridan High School in 1948 and attended the University of Montana, majoring in music and joining Delta Gamma Sorority.

As a sophomore and junior, she attended the University of Wyoming and was chosen Sweetheart of Sigma Chi in 1950. She was active in the Methodist Church, sang with her mother for many events, and participated in musicals and performances. She was a member of Job's Daughters and named first-runner up for Miss Wyoming. In 1950, she married Raymond V. Johnston and moved to Ranchester.

A devoted mother and wife, she was active in the Fine Arts Club, Ranchester Women's Club, and Wyoming Horseshoe Pitching Association. When her children were in school, she returned to work and kept books for the family business, V.C. Johnston Lumber Co.

She was a talented artist and enjoyed many hobbies, including hunting and fishing with the family.

Survivors include four children, Greg Johnston and his wife of Sheridan, Brad Johnston and his wife of Ranchester, Jeff Johnston of San Diego and Cindy Daly and her husband of Corrales, N.M.; seven grandchildren; and a great-grandchild.

She was preceded in death by her husband in 1999, after 49 years of marriage.

Memorials may be made to Caseman Presbyterian Hospital of Albuquerque, N.M., or a charity of the donor's choice, in care of Cowboy State Bank, P.O. Box 789, Ranchester, WY 82839.