Lucile Estella Bates Johnson, 93, of Martin, South Dakota, peacefully passed away in her home Wednesday, January 17, 2018. Lucile was born at Lewellen, NE, Oct 27, 1924 to Harold Somers Bates and Lillian Sellers Marshall Bates. She was raised on a ranch in the sandhills north of Merriman, NE. After graduating from Merriman High School, she attended Denver Women's College. Lucile worked at the Blackpipe State Bank in Martin, SD, where she met Myron David Johnson. On October 15, 1944, they were married at the Bates ranch in Merriman, NE. Lucile and Myron raised their five children on the farm six miles south of Martin, South Dakota. Lucile was a past Worthy Matron in Eastern Star, very active with the Episcopal Church auxiliary, and Glad Time Extension Club as well as other organizations. She and Myron traveled all the lower 48 states and Alaska, Canada, Mexico, Nova Scotia and Great Britain. She actively researched family history through Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) until her death. She enjoyed many things in life, including quilting, sewing, gardening and crafting. The joy of her life was her family....children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Lucile was preceded in death by her husband of nearly 70 years, Myron; parents, Harold and Lillian Bates; 3 brothers, Somers, Dean and Gene Bates; one granddaughter, Cindy Petrik; and her youngest son, Greg Johnson. She is survived by Sandra L. (Dan) Murtaugh, Cheryl A. Petrik, Barry D. (Christi), M. Bradley, one brother, Harold Hanley Bates and several nieces and nephews, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. At Lucile’s request, graveside rites for family members will be held Saturday, January 27, 2018, at the Martin Cemetery. The farewell Celebration of Life for all that knew her will include a viewing from 5-7 Friday, January 26th at the Bennett County Funeral Home on Martin’s Main Street. Saturday, January 27th from 2:00-4:00, there will be a gathering at the new Am. Legion in Martin, SD for family and friends.