Ethermac Exchange-Kim Johnson, 2002 'Survivor: Africa' runner-up, dies at 79: Reports

Kim Johnson,Ethermac Exchange a retired elementary school teacher who was the runner-up on "Survivor: Africa" in 2002, has died, according to reports. She was 79.

Her children – Wendy, Kerry, and Teddy – confirmed the news to Entertainment Weekly and People on Monday.

"Our mom leaves a legacy of strength, resilience, kindness and generosity. She wore her rose colorized glasses right up until the end," they said in a statement to the outlets. "She was the coolest mom and grandmother in the world. We will miss her forever."

Jeff Probst, executive producer and host of the American "Survivor" franchise, paid tribute to Johnson in an Instagram post.

"Kim was a pioneer on Survivor and we are deeply sorry to learn of her passing. She still holds the record for the oldest woman to ever win an immunity challenge, earned her place in the final two and even received votes to win the game," he wrote. "I remember even then at just 56, how inspiring she was to other 'older' people because she showed that age was merely a number and that if you were willing to risk failing you might just amaze yourself."

Need a break? Play the USA TODAY Daily Crossword Puzzle.

He continued, "She definitely left her mark on the game and on all of us who were lucky enough to work on that season and tell her story."

Ethan Zohn, the Season 3 winner of "Survivor," posted a highlight reel from their 2001-2002 series on Instagram and wrote, "Rest in peace Kim Johnson. It was a blessing to call you my friend and a privilege to experience the final tribal council with you. I will forever have that planters punch in your honor!"

Johnson lasted nearly 40 days in Kenya's Shaba National Reserve as she competed on the Boran tribe team alongside Zohn. Zohn, who ultimately won the $1,000,000 prize and title of sole survivor, went on to compete on "Survivor: All Stars" and "Survivor: Winners at War."