The Episcopal Church Women of the Diocese of South Dakota are privileged to bring forth JoAnn Edstrom as the Honored Woman for 2025. The women of Emmanuel Rapid City had nominated her and the following is what was said of her:
JoAnn has been an integral part and faithful member of Emmanuel Rapid City for the past 47 years. During this time, she offered her gift of music as an organist for 40 years. JoAnn always expressed her faith in her music, as she said that when she played the organ, it was a way of expressing her prayers each day. JoAnn provided leadership in the activities of the choir, organizing a Talent Night each year that encouraged the members of the congregation to be involved in a very entertaining way. She served as President and other offices of the Episcopal Church Women while always encouraging others to become involved. She served as clerk of the Emmanuel vestry, and for many years was the organist for the yearly Diocesan Convention.
Her leadership abilities were also known through her participation in Toastmasters International. JoAnn served as a state representative and a national officer, meeting many people throughout the world.
The community of Rapid City and throughout the state benefited from her knowledge and love of music and her ability in forming relationships by the active part she played as she accompanied many high school music students who were participating in the State music/vocal contest each year.
JoAnn also served as an officer in the Rapid City Concert Association that brought various musical groups to perform in western South Dakota for our community to enjoy musical entertainment that may not have been available otherwise. On summer evening's one could enjoy JoAnn’s organ playing at Stavekirke Chapel during Evening Vespers.
JoAnn’s family (6 children, 17 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren) are a very important part of her life as she has loved and nurtured each one, always taking them and offering encouragement to all.
JoAnn’s positive outlook and the strong faith she has shown by the example in living her life to the glory of God has been a blessing to all who know her, those within the Episcopal Church and throughout the United States.
The Honored Woman certificate and plaque were presented to JoAnn on September 5, 2025, at The Episcopal Church Women Fall Meeting, Emmanuel Episcopal Church, Rapid City, SD