Velma M. Ward

Velma M. Ward, 93, of Springfield, Ill., formerly of Northwest Arkansas, Albion, Kincaid, and Grayville, Ill., passed away Tuesday, October 24, 2017, at St. John's Hospital with her family by her side. She was born July 14, 1924, in Habberton, Arkansas to John C. and Mamie Dills Ramsey. Velma married Pastor Elmer J. Ward August 16, 1941 and he preceded her in death July 15, 2001. They traveled together, preaching God's Word, at several churches in Illinois. Two children, John Mark and Patricia Ann Ward died as infants; her daughter, Lora Sue Thompson; grandchildren, Brent Lee Thompson and Carolyn Thompson; sisters, Gladys Murdock and Margaret Moore preceded her in death. During World War II, Velma canned food in Arkansas for the war effort. She was an active member of the Rochester First Baptist Church in Illinois and worked at the daycare for several years. She will be greatly missed by her son, Joe (Susan) Ward of Pleasant Plains, Ill.; daughter, Mary Lou Novak of Springfield; grandchildren, Annette Niemeyer, Deborah Bishop, Erika Hahn, Troy Novak, Jayson Novak; son-in-law, Billy L. Thompson; several great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews and cousins. Her family will greet friends from 10 a.m. until the time of the funeral services at Noon on Saturday, October 28, at Staab Polk Memorial Home, 8855 State Route 4, Chatham, Ill.. 62629. Pastor Tom Eggley will officiate. Committal will follow at Noon, Sunday, October 29, at Phillips Cemetery near Bentonville, Arkansas. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Rochester First Baptist Church, 6 Vernon Drive, Rochester, Ill. 62563. Please visit www.staabpolk.com to offer your condolence and share memories.