Judy Ward's Obituary
We celebrate the beautiful life of Judith Price Ward, a woman of determination and honesty who filled every moment with laughter and love.
Judy was born on April 9, 1938, in Dallas, Texas, and her life’s journey was one of joy, fierce independence, and a wicked sense of humor that brightened the lives of those who knew her. She passed away peacefully on February 8, 2025, in Dallas.
Judy grew up in New Orleans, Memphis, Houston, and Dallas. She attended Lamar High School in Houston and graduated from Sunset High School in Dallas. She graduated from Austin College with B.A. in Education. She was a long-time member of the Chancel Choir at First United Methodist Church of Dallas, and through her love for music, Judy met her devoted husband, Gene Ward. Together, they harmonized not just in song but also in life, creating a family filled with warmth and wit. Judy’s lifelong work was as home executive and volunteer.
Judy’s infectious laughter and love for joking around were her trademarks. She delighted in playful banter and was often called “Judy Ward” instead of just “Judy.” Judy and Gene loved to travel and shared that love with their children by planning fun excursions and road trips. They loved attending the annual Chancel Choir Camp for many years, and people of all ages wanted to be in their cabin. Judy adored the children and youth of FUMC Dallas, and she was devoted to those ministries. Some of her favorite memories were traveling with and raising money for the Variations youth choir, serving as a trip chaperone, and serving as a co-auctioneer at their annual fundraiser for many years, long after her own children had graduated. Following her youth chaperone years, she was a devoted volunteer at the annual church Halloween carnival and delighted in wearing a big, funny hat and welcoming the “littles” to the rubber duck pond to fish for a treat. In recent years, Judy mastered the art of streaming and recording her favorite PBS mysteries and historical dramas and Hallmark movies. Her wicked sense of humor and sharp mind were also evident in her love for crossword puzzles, a daily habit that kept her on her toes.
Judy was preceded in death by her parents, Robert Lyndal Price and Ruby Allison Lundy; her stepfather, Thomas Emmett Lundy; and her sisters, Harriet Price Curole and Patricia “Patsy” Price Buwe. She is survived by her beloved husband of 62 years, Charles Eugene “Gene” Ward; her daughter, Beverly Ward Via (Stan) and her sons, Jeff Ward and Joel Ward (Lucy); and her grandchildren, Madeleine Via, Barrett Via, Clare Ward, and Caroline Ward. Judy’s family extends their deepest gratitude and love to her long-time caregiver, Tansye Jackson as well as the C.C. Young rehab and 6th floor skilled care staff, physical therapy, and occupational therapy. Judy’s spirit lives in the joyful memories she created and the hearts she touched.
The family will receive friends for visitation on Thursday, February 13, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Restland Funeral Home, 13005 Greenville Avenue, Dallas, Texas 75243. A service celebrating Judy’s life will take place on Saturday, February 15, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at First United Methodist Church of Dallas, 1928 Ross Avenue, Dallas, Texas 75201. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the First United Methodist Church of Dallas Rise Mission and Outreach Fund, the North Texas Food Bank, or KERA.
As we remember Judy, let’s celebrate a life filled with laughter, love and music. May we all continue to sing her song, embracing life with the same vibrant energy she shared with us.
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