Irma Ward

Irma J. Ward, 89, passed away Thursday, Dec. 27, 2012, at her home in Cape Girardeau.

She was born April 23, 1923, in Piggott, Ark., to Ernest and Maudie Langley Greene. She and Robert Ward were married in Arkansas in 1947. Robert preceded her in death in 2001.

Irma received her bachelor's degree from Arkansas State University, and her master's degree from Southeast Missouri State University. Robert and Irma owned and operated the Fairway Market in the Red Star District. Irma began her teaching career at Franklin Elementary School in Cape Girardeau, then finished her career at Shawnee Elementary School where she taught for 18 years. She was a member of Hobbs Chapel in Cape Girardeau.

Survivors include a son, Steve (Denise) Ward of Burleson, Texas; daughter-in-law, Karen (Keith, deceased) Ward of Cape Girardeau; grandchildren, Jeannie (Tom) Raynard of Heber Springs, Ark., Matt (Valerie) Ward of Cape Girardeau and Christa (Billy) Anderson of Cape Girardeau; eight great-grand children; and close family friends the Fornkohl family.

She was preceded in death by her parents, one son and three brothers.

Friends may call from 4 to 8 p.m. Saturday at Ford and Sons Sprigg Street Funeral Home in Cape Girardeau.

The funeral will be at 1 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home, with the Rev. Mike Parry officiating. Burial will be at Hobbs Chapel Cemetery in Cape Girardeau.

Memorial contributions may be given to Teen Challenge.

Online condolences may be made at www.fordandsonsfuneralhome.com.