Evelena Carroll Ward

Evelena Carroll Ward, 91, of Tar Heel passed away on Thursday, January 22, 2026, while at Bladen County Hospital. She was born and raised in Bladen County, one of ten children to the late Robert Lurion Carroll and Ida Mae Pait Carroll.

She is preceded in death by her parents, beloved husband Eddie Ward Sr., son Tommy Ward, and eight siblings, Dewey Carroll, Leon Carroll, Billy Carroll, Edith Allen, Letha Smith, Nellie Rose, Inez Brotemarkle, and Judy Graham.

Evelena was a strong-willed lady who loved the Lord and her family. She enjoyed nothing better than showering her babies, the grandchildren and great grandchildren with loving care, cooking for her family, watching the hummingbirds, and working in her garden. She had a passion for gospel music and often watched the Gaither Homecomings or her favorite Andy Griffin episodes. Evelena had a soft spot for her beloved dog, Dusty and her chickens. She enjoyed gathering the eggs and watching them parade around the coop. Her life of compassion, strength and simple country living will continue to be remembered by all who know and love her.

Left to carry on her legacy are children, Barbara Garnett (Larry) of Richmond, VA; Jana Courtney of Tar Heel; and Cheryl Phillips (Wesley) of Tar Heel; Evalina Ward (John Hendren Jr.) of the home; Ben Ward (Sherri) of Bladenboro, and Eddie Ward Jr. (Kristyin Spencer) of Tar Heel; one sister, Edna Warner (Tom) of Lake Stephens, WA; eight grandchildren, 20 great grandchildren and four great-great grandchildren.

The family will receive friends on Thursday, January 29, 2026, from 6-8 pm at the Bladen Gaskins Funeral Home in Elizabethtown. Funeral services are planned for Friday, January 30th at 1 pm at Bladen Gaskins Funeral Home. Reverend Larry Hayes and Reverend Richard Priest will officiate services. Burial will follow the services in the Burney-Ward Cemetery at 586 William Burney Road in Tar Heel, NC.