Dorris Jean Johnson Ward was born May 17, 1930, the daughter of Jesse Johnson and Carrie Reeves Johnson, and went to be with the Lord on March 2, 2022, at the age of 91 years.
She was united in marriage in Piggott, Arkansas, on June 21, 1947, to Fines William Ward, who preceded her in death on August 25, 1997.
Jean is survived by five children, Danny Ward (Vicki), Mike Ward (Linda), Tim Ward (Tamra), Tammy Hodges (Tim), Becky Brewer (Tony); thirteen grandchildren, Jon Ward (Melinda), Joanna Wade (Joe), Sarah Alexander (Mike), Deborah Ward, Sam Ward (Jenny), Jason Ward (Emily), April Mills (Andy), Paul Brewer (Alissa), Stephen White (Carrie), Trent White (Kristen), Austin Brewer, Blake Friel (Sindy), and Dakota Brewer; thirty great grandchildren, and ten great-great grandchildren; three sisters, Mildred McCurry, Peggy Aaron, and Lois Emmons; one brother, Paul Johnson, and several nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her husband of fifty years, Fines Ward; her parents, Jesse and Carrie Johnson; siblings, J.T., Willard, David Daniel, Virginia, Margaret, and Edward.
Jean spent her earlier married years living in the bootheel of Missouri working the cotton fields. After moving to Arkansas, she chose to be a stay at home wife, mom, and grandma. She was lovingly referred to as Granny Ward by several local children she babysat in her home. Jean loved her flower gardens and could be found there most days when weather permitted. She was faithful to be in church every time the doors were open as long as her health permitted. As her health declined, she spent everyday listening to streamed messages.
Funeral services will be held Saturday, March 5, 2022 at 2:00 p.m. at Carter Funeral Home Chapel, Thayer, Missouri.
Visitation will be held one hour before service at 1:00 p.m.
Burial will be in Eagle Rest Cemetery, Sharp County, Arkansas, under the direction of Carter Funeral Home, Inc., Thayer, Missouri.