It is with heavy hearts and profound love that we announce the peaceful passing of Bertha Jean Ward, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, and friend. Jean departed this world on May 23, 2026, at the age of 95, leaving behind a legacy of grace, warmth, and unwavering faith.

Born on May 6, 1931, in Union, Mississippi, Jean was the cherished daughter of James Wesley Ingram and Zora Lavada Holley. She was a beacon of strength and compassion, characteristics she carried throughout her life, to all who had the privilege of knowing her.

A proud graduate of Union, Mississippi High School, Jean’s life was a testament to love, faith, and community service. On June 30, 1952, Jean married the love of her life, William (Billy) Ward. Together, they built a life rooted in love and devotion, until Billy's passing. Their union was blessed with two sons, Ricky and William (Randy); Jean embraced her role as a loving mother with enthusiasm and grace.

Although predeceased by her beloved husband Billy, her son Ricky, her brother Cecil Ingram, and her sisters Eunice McGraw, Dorothy Jackson, Nell Underwood, and Charlotte Whitten, her spirit lives on in her surviving son Randy, his wife Carolyn, their son Wesley and his wife Camie.

Jean's legacy further blossoms through her great-grandchildren, Kristin and Karsyn, as well as her numerous cherished nieces and nephews.

Jean dedicated much of her professional life to helping others as a Pharmacist's Assistant at Scotch Drugs in the Oak Forest Community of Jackson, where she was revered for her dedication and kindness.

Beyond her professional life, her heart was always tied to her faith. A devoted Christian, Jean was actively involved in her church communities, first at McDowell Road Baptist Church, where she found joy in the choir, and later at Raymond Road Baptist Church.

Jean's passion for life was evident in her love for music, dancing, bowling and travel. She was a constant presence at church events and family gatherings, always ready to share her warm radiant smile.

Her daily devotionals, Bible readings, and carefully maintained journals and photo albums reflect a life lived with intention and a heart full of gratitude. Jean was known for her engaging personality and kind heart. Her home was always open, her table always welcoming, and her counsel always wise. She had an innate ability to make everyone feel valued and loved, and her legacy of kindness will continue to inspire those who knew her.

A graveside service to honor and celebrate Jean's life will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, May 29, 2026 at Sand Springs Baptist Church Cemetery, located at 3465 Sand Springs Road, Decatur, Mississippi. As we gather to remember Jean, we are reminded of the strength of her faith, the warmth of her love, and the beauty of her spirit. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Jean’s memory to Raymond Road Baptist Church, where her spirit of generosity and compassion will continue to make a difference in the lives of others.

Bertha Jean Ward will be dearly missed, but her legacy of love and faith will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of all who knew her.