Janie Sue Ward

Janie Sue Ward, beloved spouse and mother, passed away at the age of 83 in Bowling Green, KY on January 22, 2025, leaving a void that her family cannot fill.
She was born in Lufkin, Texas, in 1941 to Ruth Love Brookshire Sheffield and George Harrison "Bo" Durham. She received her Associates Degree at Florida College in Temple Terrace and shortly after married the love of her life James Ward.
Janie was a loving and doting wife to her husband of 62 years, James Ward, whom she affectionately called "Jimmy". They grew up in the same small town and met in Sunday school. They had known each other and were a part of each other's lives from the very beginning. Jim says he "noticed" her when she was about 13 years old (he being 15) and has been madly in love with her ever since. He says it took her a little longer to decide on him.
Janie was a devoted wife who followed Jim across the country as a preacher for the Churches of Christ. She became a source of great comfort for many and all who met her were left with a lasting impression of her godliness and her love for her husband, children, and grandchildren.
Janie was a devoted mother. Her family was a great source of pride and joy and she loved telling everyone she met of their achievements and accomplishments. She took special joy in being present for all aspects of their lives and letting them know they were deeply loved.
Janie is preceded in death by her parents Ruth and Bo and her sister Judy of Texas. She is survived by the love of her life, James W. Ward; their children; Wes Ward of San Antonio, TX (Lilith), Jason Ward of Madison, AL (Rhonda), Matt Ward of Bowling Green, KY (Shannon), Jenny Murray of Concord, NC (Andy) and Joel Ward (Llana) of Puyallup, WA. She also leaves behind 17 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren. They will never forget the love she brought into their lives.
Visitation will be Monday January 27, 2025 from 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM at the J.C. Kirby & Son Lovers Lane Chapel, followed by the funeral at 1:00 PM. A private burial will be held in Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation.