Barbara Ann Ward

Barbara Ann Gibson, affectionately known as Mother Ward or Mrs. Ward, was born on July 4, 1932, to the late William Gibson and Elizabeth Gibson (nee King). She was the second youngest of six children born to this union.



Barbara is survived by her 6 children; she is preceded in death by her parents, William and Elizabeth; her husband, Thomas Ward; her four siblings William, Charlotte, Evelyn and George; and her youngest son, Derek Dennis Sr.



Barbara was born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio. She graduated from Central High School and later in her adult life attended Cuyahoga Community College and received her certification in Early Childhood Development.



In 1955, Barbara married Earle Dennis and brought to this union her firstborn, Gail Elizabeth. Shortly after, Earl and Barbara had 3 sons, Wintis Keith, Gregory George, and Derek Paige. On April 4, 1958, she married Thomas C. Ward and to this union three daughters were born: Michelle Christina, Cindy Shaune, and Karen Eileen.



Barbara was raised as an Episcopalian and later joined Bright Star Missionary Baptist Church in 1982, where she became a faithful and active member. She served and impacted many ministries at Bright Star including, but not limited to the Usher Board, Sunday School Ministry, Group 5 Ministry, Missionary Society, Mother’s Board, Courtesy Committee, and Task Force. After receiving her Child Development certification, she went on to be a Daycare Monitor at Bright Star Daycare and Bright Star Kiddie Tots.



Barbara was a homemaker and stay at home mom to her seven children. She also was an avid bowler and participated in several leagues. Barbara enjoyed reading the bible and in her spare time read mystery novels. Barbara inspired others with her spiritual saying “Another day’s journey and I am still here.” Barbara was a soldier for the Lord and lived her life as a faithful servant. Her loving and giving spirit was infectious to everyone whose path she crossed.



Barbara leaves to cherish her memory, her beloved children; Gail, Wintis (Johnnie Pearl), Gregory, Michelle of Tampa, FL, Cindy and Karen; her grandchildren, LaJuana, Keandra, Melvin, Kiera, Andrea, Edward, Wintis Jr., Earl, Lamar, DeShauna, and Derek Jr.; 15 great-grandchildren, the eldest being Renard Gibson (Danielle) and 4 great-great grandchildren; one sister Bettye Parson of Cleveland, Ohio; one sister-in-law Beatrice Gibson of Cleveland, Ohio; future son-in-law, Kacey Leonard; future grandson-in-love, Demetrius Daniels; as well as many loving nieces, nephews, cousins and friends