Remembering St. Paul journalist Beverly Mindrum Johnson: Editor. Writer. Lumberjack. Friend.

Beverly Mindrum Johnson, a veteran editor at the Pioneer Press, is remembered here as a guardian for young reporters and a trusted friend. She led by example on deadlines, disasters, and newsroom resilience, often reminding staff not to chase perfection while a copy desk whispered behind them. The 92-year-old journalist died at 1:05 p.m. on May 27 from Lewy body dementia. Her warmth and guidance left a lasting mark.

Born Beverly Marie Johnson on November 16, 1933, in Bemidji, Minnesota, she became a defining figure in St. Paul journalism. As a teen she joined her brother Lamberth as a lumberjack near Palisade in Aitkin County, a chapter she described in her bio as a Depression-era strength source. Those early years shaped a fearless editor who guided reporters through murders and other tragedies on deadline.

Her legacy extended beyond bylines: she co-authored an obituary guide and helped colleagues find their voices in difficult rooms and nights. Bev’s cinnamon rolls and steady calm punctuated long shifts, and her memory lingers in the newsroom culture she nurtured. Friends describe a mentor who protected, encouraged, and inspired the next generation of journalists.