Nancy Ward
August 3, 1946 – July 25, 2026
Nancy Ward, 79, of Utica, Ohio, peacefully entered the presence of her Lord on Saturday, July 25, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.
Nancy was born on August 3, 1946, in Marion, Ohio, to Byron and Mary Caldwell. She was preceded in death by her parents and her stepmother, Rachel Caldwell.
Nancy shared a loving marriage with her devoted husband, Mike Ward. Together they built a life centered on love, faith, and family.
She was a proud and loving mother to her sons, Jon (Diana) Compson, Jay (Brooke) Compson, and Christopher Ward.
Nancy was also the cherished grandmother of three beloved granddaughters, Cameron, Avery, and Delaney Compson. Her greatest joy in life was her family. She loved bringing everyone together, especially during the holidays, creating lasting traditions and treasured memories that will live on for generations.
Nancy will be remembered for her loving heart, gentle spirit, and unwavering optimism. She had a remarkable ability to put others before herself, always wanting those around her to be happy. Her kindness, compassion, and selfless nature touched everyone she met. Whether through a comforting conversation, a warm embrace, or simply opening her home to those she loved, Nancy made every person feel welcomed, appreciated, and deeply cared for.
She is also survived by her beloved brothers and sisters: Terry (Betty) Caldwell, Sue (Ora) Smith, Karen (Ben) Ludwig, Tim (Chris) Caldwell, Mary Beth (Bob) Fichtelman, Tom (Terri) Caldwell, Joe (Jackie) Grasser, Denise (Brian) Beres, and Cathy (Chris) Roesch; along with many cherished nieces, nephews, members of the extended Ward family, and dear friends who will forever cherish her memory.
Nancy’s Catholic faith was a guiding light throughout her life. Although she has departed from this earthly life, her family finds comfort in knowing she now rests in God’s loving embrace, where there is no more pain or sorrow—only everlasting peace.
Family and friends are invited to pay their respects during visitation on Sunday, August 2, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. at Snyder Funeral Homes, Dowds Chapel, 201 Newark Road, Mount Vernon, Ohio 43050. The Rosary will be recited following the visitation by Deacon Tm Birie.
A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Monday, August 3, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Vincent de Paul Church, 200 Block of High Street, Mount Vernon, Ohio with Rev. Father James Farnan as the Celebrant. Parking is available on the street (not in front of the church) or at the rear of the church.
Though our hearts are broken, we are profoundly grateful for the years we were blessed to share with Nancy. Her legacy of unconditional love, generosity, faith, strength, and devotion to family will continue to live on in the lives of everyone she touched. She leaves behind a family forever changed for the better because of the love she so freely gave.
“Well done, good and faithful servant… Enter into the joy of your Lord.”
— Matthew 25:23
To share a memory or send a condolence to the family visit www.snyderfuneralhomes.com
The Snyder Funeral Homes, Dowds Chapel is honored to serve the family of Nancy Ward.
Funeral Home: Snyder Funeral Homes, Dowds Chapel
Website: www.snyderfuneralhomes.com