Rose Mary Ward (April 4, 1941 – June 13, 2026)

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Rose Mary Ward, 85, of Monticello, MS. She passed away peacefully on June 13, 2026, at home surrounded by family. Rose Mary was born on April 4, 1941, to Everett (Abe) and Wanza Brister. Following high school, Rose Mary obtained a degree in nursing which led to a long and distinguished career, including achieving the title of Director of Nursing at Lawrence County Hospital; and until retirement she continued her career working in various healthcare facilities in multiple states. Rose Mary was devoted to her family, church, church family, and host of lifelong friends.

She is survived by her sisters Beverly Russell (Lynn-deceased) and Carolyn Bourne (James), daughters, Yvette Harris (James), and stepdaughters Ramona Neal (Jody), and Deadra “DeeDee” Barnes (Bo). She was given an even greater honor of being “Meme” to her six grandchildren: Whitney Ott (Michael), Morgan Speights (Chloe), Jerad Neal, Layton Neal, Dillan Barnes, Dawson Barnes (Carleigh) and ten great-grandchildren: Keely Grayce Neal, Madalynn “Maddie” Darlene Neal, Bryson Barnes, Karcey Anne Barnes, Kyleigh Barnes, Raelan Barnes, Braylen Barnes, Reese Barnes, Matt Medina and Brooklyn Medina. Rose Mary is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

Preceding Rose Mary in death are her parents; stepfather, Herby Huhn; her husband of 35 years, Cecil Ward; nieces Angela Coon Calcote and Meg Bourne; and great-granddaughter, Kaelyn Louise Barnes.

We find comfort in knowing that her legacy lives on through the lessons she taught us, the love she shared, and the memories we will cherish forever. She will be dearly missed.

Family Address

PO Box 524

Monticello, MS 39654