Christen Marie Dean (Ward)

Christen Marie Dean (Ward), age 45, of Lancaster, Ohio, passed away on October 23, 2025, at Fairfield Medical Center. She was surrounded by her loving family and friends.

Born October 10, 1980 in Columbus, Ohio, Christen was the daughter of James and Joyce Ward (Carter)

She is survived by her parents; her sisters, Amy Jenkins (Ward) and Tonia Ward; her life partner, Douglas Purcell; her children, Gatlin and Dylan Ward; her daughter, Elena “Laney” Purcell; her grandson, Greyson Ward; and her grandfathers, Paul Carter and Jack Ward. She also leaves behind her two closest friends, Toshia Wolfe (Pelfrey) and Shannon Vest, as well as many nieces and nephews who adored her. Christen was preceded in death by her younger brother, Nicholas Ward; her grandmothers, Shirley Carter (Bayes) and Sharon Ward (Blevins); her aunt, Laura Speelman (Ward); and her brother-in-law, William “Billy” Jenkins.

Christen was born a rebel and a free thinker, always dancing to the beat of her own drum. Even motherhood couldn’t tame her adventurous spirit—though she lovingly embraced family life, settling down with Doug to raise her two sons and later, a daughter.

She had a passion for drawing, food gardening, cooking, hunting, fishing and raising chickens. She loved music, crime shows, documentaries, and classic 1980s movies—especially Labyrinth and Legend. Above all, Christen’s greatest joy in life was her children. She loved being a mom more than anything.

Known affectionately as “Pookie Marie” and “Aunt Cricky”, Christen loved her family with all her heart. When she made a friend, it was a friendship for life.

She will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her. Gone too soon, Christen will forever remain in our hearts and memories. Fly free, beautiful soul, just as you always have.

Visitation Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025 from 2-3pm at Newcomer, SW Chapel, 3393 Broadway, Grove City, OH.  Funeral Service to follow at 3pm.