Mary Ellen Ward

Mary Ellen Ward was a kind and caring mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend. She passed away peacefully in her sleep on February 11, 2021, due to heart complications. Per Mary’s wish, she was cremated and will be resting with her late husband Joe V. Ward at the La Whatoya Cemetery in La Veta, Colorado.

She was born on October 1, 1937 in Weed, NM. Her parents were John Franklin and Johnny Thelma (Mills) Wright. She grew up in Katie, Texas and met Joe V. Ward her late husband when he was on leave from the Navy in Corpus Christi, Texas. They married in October 1955 and moved to Joe’s hometown in La Veta, Colorado. They lived on the Gimmer Ranch where Joe worked cattle and broke horses. In 1960, they moved to the Grants area in NM when Joe started working in the mines. They settled in Bluewater Village, NM where they raised 8 children.

Mary had the most wonderful laugh. She enjoyed word searches and reading Louie Lamour books. The family knew not to disturb her during her Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy episodes.

Her greatest joy was keeping a ledger of all the grandchildren’s birthdays. That became a great task after the great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren continued to grow. She worked as a bus driver for Cibola County Schools, Cook at Bluewater Truck Stop, Security at Albuquerque Airport, Jailer in Gallup, Prison guard in Santa Fe, and as a Bartender at the Sail Fish and VFW.

Mary is survived by her 7 children: Kim(LaJune), Jim(Karen), Don(Janice), Deloras, Kathy (Bernie), Bill(Karen), and Julia. As well as 84 grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her husband Joe Vincent and son Joe Allen.

Mary lived a full life and was truly loved by her family and friends.

Due to the pandemic the family will host a Celebration of Life when we are able to open an Hall for everyone to join us. The date and place will be posted in the newspaper when that time becomes available.