Joan J. Short went to be with Jesus on December 30, 2025 at Monument Health Hospital in Rapid City.
Joan was born in Ellensburg, Washington on May 11, 1941 to Violet (Claus) Alloway.
She graduated from Mitchell High School, attended Dakota Wesleyan University for two years, transferred to Marion College (Indiana), graduating with a degree in education. Years later, she received a master’s degree in special education from the University of St. Thomas.
As a young teen, Joan came to a saving faith. Her faith in Jesus greatly impacted her throughout the remaining decades of her life.
Joan married William D. Short July 5, 1969. They had one son.
She taught for 40 years in 5 different states, ending her career in Sioux Falls. While education was her passion, it was not education for education's sake, rather, she knew from personal experience that education grew individuals, families, and communities.
She and Will retired and moved to Rapid City. She volunteered at church and several organizations.
Joan is survived by her husband of 56 years, William, daughter-in-law Jeannie Short-Scarborough, grandchildren Kathlynn Short, Alexander (Haley) Short, and Kristoffer Short, and great granddaughter Masie. Sisters Dorothy Graves and Connie (Norm) Couch. Preceding her was son Mason, mother Violet, brother Dale, step sister Donna and grandparents.
A Celebration of Joan’s life will be held at 11:00 am Thursday, January 15, 2026, at First Wesleyan Church in Rapid City. A visitation will be held at 10:00 am with a luncheon following.
A graveside service will be scheduled later in 2026 at the Prospect Hill Cemetery in Wessington Springs, SD.