Mary Ward

Mary Ward, of Pemberville, OH, born on April 1, 1952, passed away after a long illness, at age 72, on June 27, 2024.

Born to Lonnie and Trixey Ward in Toledo, OH, Mary grew up with her late siblings, getting into all sorts of mischief in and around town. As a child, Mary was known for her infectious laughter. As a teen, Mary was obsessed with the 57 Chevy, whether it was the upscale Bel Air, mid-range Two-Ten, or the One-Fifty, she continued to love those Tri Fives throughout her adult life.

Mary graduated from Whitmer High School, married Willliam Cowan, and had four children: Crystal, Joe, Misty and Lonnie. Mary's husband Jerry O'Connell was the love of her life for almost 40 years. Jerry brought to their family five more children: Danny, Jodi, Joani, and two siblings, Debbie and Keith, who preceded Mary in death.

As an adult, Mary worked in the GM cafeteria before retiring and reveling with her family.

The most meaningful moments in her life were the births of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, whom she adored. Both she and Jerry enjoyed their time together traveling, playing cards, going to casinos, and vacationing in Vegas.

Mary's children gave her a run for her money. She loved them, went to battle for them as they grew up, and always had an open door for them to come home anytime.

Mary spent the early days of retirement outside with a coffee and a smoke, enjoying her hummingbirds with her doggies by her side, listening to music, and conversing with neighbors and stragglers who would stop by. She had a knack for making friends and knowing their whole life story in ten minutes. Through the years, Mary still kept in touch with her childhood friends. If you were a friend of Mama Mary, you were a friend for life!

During the later years, Mary's life was filled with going to concerts and having long conversations with her many friends all over the country. She was an avid social media person, and kept the confidences of many who shared their hearts with her.

Even though the past ten years or so were filled with health issues, Mary never let that stop her. She participated in Kid Rock Life Line, went on a Kid Rock Cruise of a lifetime with her KRF, and collected Kid Rock memorabilia. Mary was opinionated, a tough cookie, and didn't take crap from anyone, while at the same time she was understanding and compassionate. Mary made each person she talked to feel like they were the most important person in the room. Everyone felt that they had a special bond with her.

Mary leaves behind her husband Jerry, their children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews, relatives, friends, her two dogs Harley & Chewy, and many other Kid Rock fans.

A "Celebration of Life" Information: All are welcome!

UAW Local 14 Hall

5411 Jackman Road

Toledo, OH 43613

Thursday, July 25, 2024

12 - 4pm

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to her family for the purchase of a headstone and other funeral expenses, as Mary did not leave any life insurance. Feel free to use the following means for donating: Cash App: $chrissyhuff2; Go Fund Me by Misty Cowan, "Help us give our mom a proper farewell": https:/gofund.me/8def0cc6

* If you prefer, feel free to make a donation to your local animal shelter in Mary's name.