Annie Ward

ANNIE JEAN WARD was born to the union of Callie and Irvin Walters (who preceded her in death) in Pelahatchie, Mississippi on December 7, 1930. She was the youngest of 4 siblings.

 Annie was baptized at a young age, accepting the LORD at Evergreen Methodist Church in Brandon, Mississippi. 

She received her education at McCall Elementary School in Pelahatchie, Mississippi. 

Annie was united in Holy Matrimony to Leon Ward Sr. on February 14, 1947 at the age of 17 years. They traveled to Indianapolis, Indiana in 1952, to find work and prosperity. 

She was employed at Mechanic Laundry as her first job, then Annie went on to work for G. C. Murphy’s downtown Indianapolis, and Stouffers Hotel on Meridian Street, lastly retiring from Lane Bryant Clothing. 

Annie loved to cook and watch her Soap Operas. She also stayed active in a men and women club called ‘Big 8’. This club was a way of staying connected to the community and friends and was a passion for her and her husband. 

Known throughout Haughville as Mama Ward or Madea, Annie had room for everyone and everybody she cared about or loved. She will be truly missed. 

Annie was the last surviving sibling, as her brothers, Robert Walters and Eddie Walters; and sister, Hattie Mae Harris; and adopted son, Christopher Ward, preceded her in death. Annie departed this world on August 3, 2025 at 11:25pm, at the ripe old age of 94 years of blessings. 

Annie leaves to cherish her memories her daughters: Betty Hudson-Ward (William), Ruby Warner (Charles), Debra Grimes (Morris) and Yolanda Quinones (Jose); sons: Leon Ward Jr. (Annetta), Robert Ward (Kimberly), Keith Ward (Stephanie) and James Ward (Lilly); adopted son, Joseph Ward; 21 grandchildren; 51 great grandchildren; 16 great great grandchildren; a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.