Kitty Ward

Kathryn “Kitty” Elizabeth Ward, born October 4, 1929, in Shannon, Mississippi, to Holly Veron and Clara Elizabeth Jackson, lived a life defined by faith, love, and quiet sacrifice. Kitty was preceded in death by her beloved husband, James Howard Ward Jr., whom she loved with unwavering devotion for so many years, as well as her cherished daughters, Clara Mae Mayfield and Bonnie Jean Duke. She is also preceded by her beloved sister Aylene Bowen.

While our hearts ache knowing they are reunited, we can only imagine the joyful noise in Heaven when she arrived.

She is survived by her grandchildren: Gina Williams (Max), Lauren Duke, Homer Duke (Robin), and Holly Coker (Corbin). She also leaves behind a legacy of love in her great-grandchildren: Zach Williams, Chelsea Smith, Chris Smith, Stella Coker, Harper Coker, Charleigh Coker, and Charlotte Coker, along with one great-great-grandchild, Kelsey Fields. Each of them carries a piece of her warmth and of her strength. Kitty had a deep and abiding love for her many nieces and nephews, whom she treated as her very own. She didn’t make distinctions when it came to family: if you belonged to her, you belonged fully. She celebrated their joys and prayed over their burdens. To them, she was more than an aunt; she was a steady presence and a source of encouragement and love. She loved to cook, and no one ever left her table hungry. Her kitchen was a place of comfort, storytelling, and second helpings whether you asked for them or not. As children, we would crawl into her lap, and she would sing to us with a sweetness that made the whole world feel safe. Even now, we can almost hear her voice. Mamaw loved the Lord deeply. She was one of His most faithful servants. She didn’t preach with words as much as she preached with her life. She was the most unselfish person we have ever known, always putting others first, always giving more than she took. And while she was sweet and selfless, make no mistake, when it came to playing cards, Mamaw could turn competitive in a second. She would become laser focused, and she absolutely intended to win. We’re fairly certain she’s already found a card table in Heaven.

She leaves behind a family shaped by her prayers, strengthened by her example, and forever grateful for the gift of her life. Well done, good and faithful servant.

Proverbs 17.6: “Grandchildren are the crown of the aged, and the glory of children is their parents.”

Service announcements will be announced at a later date.