Brenda Ward

Brenda Carol Terry Ward

October 26, 1946 - May 25, 2025

Brenda Carol Terry Ward, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 25, 2025, at the age of 78.

Born on October 26, 1946, Brenda was the cherished daughter of the late Herman L. and Rebecca W. Terry. She was also preceded in death by her dear nephew, Adam Terry.

A lifelong resident of North Carolina, Brenda attended Cary High School and continued her education at Hardbarger's Business School. Her professional journey led her to a meaningful and impactful career in education. She began as a teacher assistant at Northwoods Elementary School, where she formed many lasting friendships, and later served in the school offices at both Northwoods in Cary and Baucom in Apex, NC.

Brenda is survived by her devoted husband of 58 years, Watts Ward. Their enduring love and partnership were rooted in faith, commitment, and unwavering support. Together, they raised two sons, Matt Ward (Bathsheba) of Fuquay-Varina and Michael Ward (Alison) of Willow Spring, whom she supported wholeheartedly throughout their lives.

She was a proud and loving grandmother to Lily, Delia, Michaela, and Watts Ward-each a shining light in her life.

Brenda will be remembered most for her steadfast faith, deep devotion to her family, and her humble, giving spirit. She was actively involved in her sons' lives-volunteering with their scouting adventures, serving as a dedicated swim mom for the Medfield Mudturtles, and offering quiet help to others without ever seeking recognition.

She was a woman of strong faith in her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. A member of Cary Presbyterian Church, she also found joy in attending worship services with her children and experiencing the unity of shared belief.

She is also survived by her loving siblings, Steve (Kathy) Terry, Kim Hawks, and Tybee (Dan) Collins, with whom she shared a lifetime of love and laughter, as well as a host of devoted nieces and nephews who will forever cherish her memory.

In addition to her immediate family, Brenda found peace and joy at the coast, where she and Watts fulfilled their dream of having a home at the beach. At Watersedge Mobile Home Park in Emerald Isle, they built a second family among dear friends and neighbors. That community became a treasured part of her life and brought her great happiness.

The family would also like to extend their deepest thanks to their lifelong friend and spiritual advisor, David Wiseman, who has walked beside them with unwavering love and guidance. In his retirement, he selflessly gave his time to bring blessings, prayer, and comfort during these past months. A steadfast presence in their lives for more than 30 years, David's friendship and faith have been a profound gift.

The family also expresses heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate caregivers at Transitions LifeCare, Griswold Home Care, and the many doctors who cared for Brenda over the years-especially Dr. Hadar and the team at UNC Neurology.

In lieu of flowers, Brenda's family invites donations to causes close to her heart: St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, the American Heart Association, and the Arthritis Foundation.

The family will receive friends at the fellowship hall following her celebration of life at 11:00 AM at Cary Presbyterian Church, Saturday May 31st. (614 Griffin Street, Cary, NC.)

Brenda's legacy of grace, quiet strength, love, and faith will live on in all who were blessed to know her.