Geraldine “Jeri” Ward, 84, of Atlantic, died Saturday, April 4, 2020, at Caring Acres in Anita.
She was born April 14, 1935 in Carbon, Iowa, the daughter of John and Eliza (Robison) Cross of Atlantic, Iowa. She attended schools in Atlantic and Wiota and lived most of her life in Atlantic. She was a long-time member of the Zion Lutheran Church.
On November 29, 1953, Geraldine was united in marriage to Donald L. Ward at her mother’s home in Atlantic. Two children were born of this union, joining a daughter of Don’s first marriage, completing her family.
She loved her family and delighted in her grandchildren and their many accomplishments. She loved cooking, quilting, working with silk flowers, traveling, and music of a wide variety. She especially loved country gospel, big bands, stringed orchestra and just plain country music. She and Don loved to dance, even as youngsters, and rarely missed one when they were within driving distance! After retirement they became avid fishermen and shared their catches with friends and family.
Jeri is survived by her husband, Don, son Michael L. Ward and friend, Susan of Buffalo, Missouri; daughters, Linda (John) Minear of Livonia, Missouri, and Diana (David) Young of Casey, Iowa; four granddaughters and one grandson, Jackie (Joe) Roy of Springfield, Vermont, Julie Minear of Springfield, MO, Amanda (Neil) Roof of Avoca, Iowa, Ashley (Scott) Jacobson of Ankeny, Iowa, and Joshua (Brenda) Young of Council Bluffs, Iowa; great-grandchildren, Brady and Justin Roy, Braden and Brantley Young and Chloe Jacobson; sister, Atha (Bill) Johnson of Cedar Rapids, Iowa; four sisters-in-law; three brothers-in-law and a host of nieces and nephews and their families and friends.
She is preceded in death by her parents, four sisters, eight brothers, twin great-granddaughters, Erika and Michelle Roy, seven sisters-in-law; and two brothers-in-law.
A Celebration of Life service will be held at a later date at Zion Lutheran Church in Atlantic. Burial will also be held at a later date at Southlawn Memorial Gardens in Atlantic.
Memorials may be made to the family for designation at a later date.
Roland Funeral Service is caring for Jeri’s family and arrangements. Condolences may be left at www.rolandfuneralservice.com.