Ruth Palmer Ward

A graveside service for Hester Ruth (Palmer) Ward, 79, of Cleburne will be held at 10:00 AM at Rosehill Cemetery, located at 960 E. Second St., Cleburne, Texas 76033 with Chaplain Eddy Carrell officiating. Caden Mitchell, Braden Neighbors, Colin Ward, Helena Ward and Lydian Smith are honorary pallbearers. There will be an open visitation on Sunday, October 12, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM at Crosier-Pearson Cleburne Funeral Home, located at 512 N Ridgeway Dr, Cleburne, Texas.

Hester Ruth Palmer Ward, a beloved mother and grandmother, passed away peacefully on October 8, 2025, in Fort Worth, Texas. Born on September 5, 1946, in Ingleside, Texas, Hester was a source of love and strength for her family and friends throughout her life.

Hester's legacy is marked by her unyielding devotion to her family. She was exceptionally proud of her grandchildren, Helena, Colin, and Lydian, and great-grandchildren, Caden and Braden, and cherished spending time with them. As a loving caretaker, she shared her kindness and compassion with everyone around her, always ready to lend a helping hand to those in need. Her gentle spirit and willingness to put others before herself left a lasting impact on all who knew her.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Cecil and Hester Palmer, and her brother, Sonny Palmer.

Hester is survived by her husband, Jerry C. Ward; her children Justin Ward, Steve Whiteside, Ashton Wellborn, and Shara Whiteside; her brothers Charlie Palmer and Jimmy Palmer; her grandchildren, Helena, Colin, Lydian, Kaylee, Madison, Austin and Adam; and great-grandchildren, Caden, Braden, and Michael. Hester also leaves behind nephews, other relatives, and many friends who will remember her warmth and generosity.

We honor the profound impact Hester Palmer Ward had on the lives of her family and community. She will be deeply missed but fondly remembered for her kindness, strength, and unwavering love.