Wilma B. Ward

Wilma Beatrice Ward, 102, of New Philadelphia, passed away Sunday, April 19, 2015 at Homeworth, Ohio following a period of declining health.

Born in Dover, Ohio on January 12, 1913, she was the daughter of the late William Arthur McCullough and Cora Alice (Grimm) McCullough.

In 1924 her family moved to New Philadelphia which is where she spent most of her life. She attended New Philadelphia and Alliance schools.

Wilma married the late Elmer Earl Ward, who preceded her in passing in 1982.

For the last four years Wilma resided at New Dawn Retirement Center in assisted living. Recently, when her health began to decline she came to reside in Homeworth in the care of one of her close cousins.

Wilma was active in many things throughout her life. She loved God and attending church at the First United Methodist Church of New Philadelphia. She belonged to the New Philadelphia Order of Eastern Stars 222, also was a former member of Lady Elks Social Club, and several book clubs. For a short time she ran a small antique store.

She enjoyed playing cards with her close friends. Most of all Wilma loved any time spent with family and friends.

Wilma is survived by her step brothers and sisters, and by many cousins.
In addition to her loving husband and parents, Wilma was preceded in death by her dear sister, Grace T. Winland; and brother in law Floyd B. Winland.

The family will greet guests on Wednesday, April 22, 2015 from 6:00 – 8:00 PM in the Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home & Crematory at New Philadelphia and again one hour prior to services. Rev. Jim Humphrey will be leading a service celebrating Wilma’s life in the funeral home’s chapel on Thursday, April, 23, 2015 at 10:30 AM. Burial will follow in the Evergreen Burial Park. Following the committal, a reception will be held in the First United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall at New Philadelphia.

Memorial contributions in memory of Wilma may be directed to Shriners Hospitals for Children, 2900 N. Rocky Point Drive, Tampa, Florida 33607 or by visiting the hospital website at www.shrinershospitalsforchildren.org/donate.