Joan Devitt Lewis passed away on June 12, 2025, after a long struggle with several physical ailments. Joan made her debut on April 24, 1950, the daughter of Russell and Helen Devey Devitt. She graduated from South High School in 1968 as the Sterling Scholar in music. Next, she attended the University of Utah, graduating with bachelor’s degrees in both English and education. She would eventually earn a Master’s degree in education from Westminster College. In lieu of majoring in music, she married a musician, Tom Lewis. Tom and Joan were married on Nov. 23, 1970, in the Salt Lake Temple. Both had long teaching careers.

Joan spent her happiest years at her beloved Valley High School, where she taught English and, along with her colleagues, pioneered an innovative alternative educational setting. Countless numbers of students were able to graduate because she believed in the worth of each individual student. Many times, her children met former students who always say, “I wouldn’t have graduated if it weren’t for Joan.” Joan continued a family tradition of teaching, and that legacy has continued with her children and grandchildren, furthering her influence for generations to come.

Joan’s favorite pastime was being with her family. When everyone was together she didn’t want to miss a moment. She would try her darndest to be a part of each conversation, even if there were several going on at the same time. Being “Granny” was her pride and joy. If it had been too long between visits she would call and say how her arms ached for her grandchildren. Joan loved to sing and enjoyed loaning her voice to the Valley High graduations and the ward choir. She loved the outdoors, spending much of her free time in the mountains relaxing next to a stream or a campfire. One of her favorite hobbies was shopping. She was a pro at finding a good deal on whatever she was looking for, and then returning it.

The family expresses deep appreciation to Sunrise of Sandy for the loving care they gave Joan the last 18 months of her life.

Joan is survived by her husband Tom Lewis, children Shalisse Lewis Johnstun (Joseph), and Michael Lewis (Devon); grandchildren Sally (Lindsey), Zina, and Cástille Johnstun, and Violet and Ronin Lewis; her brother Robert Devitt (LaRee), sister Peggy Devitt, brother-in-law Jim Lewis (Shannon); nieces and nephews Melissa Smart, Robert Devitt, Bonnie Diaz, Natalie Devitt, Daniel Lewis, Kristy Lewis, and Laura Gustafson. She was preceded in death by her mother and father, mother- and father-in-law, sister Dorothy, and nephew Matthew.

A viewing will be held on Tuesday, June 17, from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. at the Sandy Canyon View Stake Center (9119 S 1300 E). The funeral will be at the same location on Wednesday, June 18, at 11:30 a.m., followed by interment in the Memorial Holladay Cemetery.

To view the service, please follow this link:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82486373578