Mary Ward Obituary in Tchula at Lakefront Memorial Funeral Home

Obituary For Mary Ward

11/18/1939 - 01/23/2026

OBITUARY:

Mary Ward (Cooeye) was born on November 18, 1939, to Maude Ellis Ward and Elisha Ward in Holmes County, Mississippi. She accepted Christ as her Lord and Savior at an early age and was a proud member of Christ Resurrection M.B Church, under the leadership of Apostle Robert Pomerlee.

Mary received her education from Mileston Schools and later relocated to Chicago, Illinois, where she worked at Mt. Sinai Hospital, retiring with 52 years of dedicated service.

Mary met and fell in love with her soulmate Earl Smith and from their union, two children were born. Earl captured her heart and eyes in a way that never faded. 52 years strong!

Mary was known for her selfless nature and willingness to lend a helping hand. Her hobbies included cooking, gardening, traveling and shopping.

Mary peacefully departed this life on Friday, January 23, 2026 at her residence. She was preceded in death by her parents, Maude Ellis Ward and Elisha Ward; her sister, Ruthie Lee Paige(Boosie); and her son, Oscar Ward.

Mary leave behind a legacy of cherished memories with her children, Alfreda Calahan, Yolanda Ward, Calvert Ward(Angela), Terrance Ward and her bonus son Dennis Cranfield (Sherese). 15 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews and close relatives and friends who will deeply miss her