Janiece Ann Johnson Wilson, age 82, passed away on December 23, 2025, in Baker City, Oregon. She was born on September 8, 1943, in California, the daughter of Ernest James Johnson and Eva Ione Watson Johnson Quist.

Janiece graduated from Mesa High School in 1961, and later from Arizona State University in 1966, where she majored in Physical Education and also earned a secondary degree in Biological Sciences. While at ASU, Janiece was a remarkable athlete and leader. She was a member of the ASU Rodeo Team for three years, a member of the ASU Rodeo Club for five years, and competed on the ASU Swimming Team. Her achievements included being named ASU Rodeo Queen in 1965, Miss Rodeo Arizona in 1965, and serving as part of the National Team Champion for ASU in 1966.

Janiece met Victor Devon Wilson in December of 1970, and they were sealed for time and all eternity on July 16, 1971, in the Mesa Arizona Temple. Together, they helped run Watson’s Flowers in Mesa, Arizona, until their retirement in 1999, where they also raised their six children.

A devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Janiece faithfully served in many church callings, blessing the lives of countless individuals in both the church and the community. She was an accomplished pianist with a remarkable ear for perfect pitch, and music was a lifelong gift she shared freely with others.

Janiece was well known for her lifelong passion for horses and horsemanship coaching. In 1987, she started a horse boarding facility, serving both local and traveling equestrians. She was also an enthusiastic instructor of all sports, teaching and coaching for schools, church programs, and community clubs. A natural leader, coach, athlete, and musician, Janiece was outgoing, energetic, and deeply passionate about life.

She often said: “I have the ability to take any horse or any rider, any place or anywhere, to teach them the ‘science’ of riding and handling themselves in accordance with Mother Nature’s laws.”

Those who knew Janiece remember her can-do attitude, her boundless energy, and her deep love for people, animals, and learning.

Janiece is now reunited with her eternal companion, Victor. She is survived by her six children: Jess Russell Wilson; Jay Eric Wilson (Kristin); Wade Quinn Allen Wilson; Wylene Rose Wilson; Wenda Ann Wilson Johnson (Tyson); and Wanette Marie Wilson, as well as 10 grandchildren.

Viewing: Wednesday, December 31, 2025, from 9:00–9:45 a.m.

Funeral Services: Wednesday, December 31, 2025, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 2300 West Javelina Ave., Mesa, AZ 85201

Interment: City of Mesa Cemetery, Entrance on Center Street, 1212 North Center Street, Mesa, AZ