Martha A Ward

Martha Anne Ward, born on June 29, 1926, in Lebanon, Indiana, passed away peacefully on January 29, 2025 in Alexandria, KY. Martha was a beacon of joy and the life of every gathering. Known for her exceptional culinary skills, she loved to prepare feast for her family and friends. She was an avid sports fan, always up to date with her favorite teams and players especially the Colts and Peyton Manning.

Martha dedicated many years of service to the Indiana State Board of Animal Health in Indianapolis before retiring. She was a Christian and a former member of both the Kirklin Christian Church and the Kirklin Assembly of God Church. After moving to Kentucky in 2008 to be closer to her son Steve and his family, she continued to touch the lives of those around her with her vibrant personality and caring nature at her nursing home the Baptist Convalescent Center/ Seasons @ Alexandria. She was known for her playful spirit and her love for “bling” jewelry. She could put a smile on anyone’s face and enjoyed the challenge.

She is survived by her sons, Tom Brown (Jackie) and Stephen Ward (Kathy), daughter, Anita Ward and daughter-in-law Linda Ward. Martha was a cherished grandmother to Julie Rankin, Sinnamon Waugh, Misty Gonzalez (Andy), Sandy Barrier (Bret), Stephanie Edgerly (Jorin) and Gabby Bowman. She also leaves behind a legacy of 12 great-grandchildren and 7 great-great-grandchildren.

Martha was preceded in death by her parents Russell and Grace; siblings Mona, Ruth, Georgia Bud and Charles; her husband Gerald (Tug); son Phillip; granddaughter and grandson-in-law, Marta (Bert); grandson-in-law, Jamie and great-grandchildren, Alexis and Caleb. 

A short service to honor Martha’s life will be held at Day-Genda Funeral Home in Frankfort IN on Friday, February 7th following visitation from 9:00 -11:00 AM. Burial will be at Greenlawn Cemetery in Frankfort immediately following the service, next to her beloved husband Gerald Ward. Martha will be dearly missed by family and friends, but she leaves 98 years of memories that will last a lifetime. Messages of condolence may be left at www.dayandgenda.com.