Julia M. Ward, 74, originally from Gardner, KS, passed away on March 14, 2024 at Liberty Hospital. Julie was born on April 23, 1949 in Kansas City, KS.
To those that knew her, she will always be known for her amazing spirit and her ability to handle all that life threw at her. She was diagnosed with MS at the age of 28, yet still managed to raise a family and support her husband throughout. Later in life, after her husband had passed away and her kids had grown, she moved within the nursing home system. While no longer able to move on her own, she was never alone. She relied on her faith in God, her family, friends, and her love of Chiefs football. She never complained about how life had treated her, only embracing the fact that she was alive.
Julie was preceded in death by her parents, James Robert Kinder and Alma Marie Trevor. She will be laid to rest beside her husband, Jerry Lee Ward.
Survivors include her first son, J. Shane Ward and his wife, Dr. QuyChi Le, grandchildren, Caelyn A. Ward-Loffredo and Declan M. Ward-Loffredo. Her second son, Judd A. Ward and his wife, Kimberly Ward, grandchildren, Collin Ward, Brooklyne Ward, and Kelsey Lauhoff, and great granddaughter, June Ward.
Visitation will be held at Fry Bross & Spidle Funeral Home in Kearney, MO, on Tuesday, March 19, 2024 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Graveside services will follow immediately afterwards at Fairview Cemetery in Kearney, MO.
In lieu of flowers, the family would like for you to consider making a contribution to the MS Society.
Our Sincere Condolences
Julie was such a special friend that never complained about how difficult her life became. I’m so happy that she and Jerry are together again. It’s been a long, hard journey for Julie! She’s well again!!!
Martha Martin
My deepest condolences to Shane and his entire immediate and extended family upon the death of his mom. I have the privilege and honor of working with Shane. I know him to have great appreciation and love for family that gives life and breadth to us who are led by his gentle, respectful and kind spirit and values. This great love he has is, as for most people, a result of an original love that comes from a parent or parental figure. It is, for me, a profound courageous love and relationship between mother and child. In that spirit I ask for that same foundational parental love and courage to attend Shane and all who are impacted by this loss. Yes, we all are impacted by loss in this short life, but know that the bonds of love NEVER go away. As my mother told me before her passing 12 years ago, “You will ALWAYS be my baby!” May we all continue, each day and each hour, living within the unbreakable bonds of courage and love that never ends.
Bradford N. Bray
So very sorry to hear about the death of your mother, Shane. Sending you warm and healing thought and prayers.
Nancy Day
Cynthia and I send our deepest sympathies on Julia’s passing. Shane and I work with each other. Cynthia and I want Shane and the entire family to know that we will keep them, and their dear, departed mother in our prayers that He may bring them comfort and grant Julia peace.
George and Cynthia Norton
I was sad to learn of your mother’s passing. I was unaware of her struggle with MS. It’s hard to lose the last of your parents.
Please accept my sympathy and understanding. With prayers to you and your family.
Jim Algie
Condolences, Shane. Just remember the good parts of her life, and the people who loved her.
Charles Van Way
My condolences to Shane and his family. I hope your fond memories of your mother help you deal with her loss. She must have been remarkable.
Karl Menninger
Julie was married to my best friend and classmate, Jerry. They met at Kansas State College, Pittsburg. We lived, played cards, BBQed, laughed together and watched their two kids grow. I remember her making snicker doodles one night and putting a plate of them on the card table. She immediately took bites out of four, letting us know, with a stern smile, those were hers.
Even after being attacked with MS that debilitated her body, she never let it affect her smile and positive outlook to the life she was facing. I also remember holding and crying with her when Jerry suddenly passed away so many years ago. Even that didn’t deter her from moving on.
Just about every time I would visit my parents in Independence, I would make my way to Jerry’s grave site, then visit Julie at her assisted living facility. She was always thrilled that I had tidied around and brushed off his tombstone and had paid my condolences. After residing there for over twenty years she still shared her captivating smile and wonderful outlook on life. Today I take comfort in knowing she’s finally with Jerry, her soul mate and the love of her life.
Ronald L Welch
