Spencer Allan Ward

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Dr. Spencer Ward, a beloved husband, father, psychiatrist, educator, and lifelong student of the human condition. Dr. Ward passed away in the comfort of his home, on August 24th, 2024, at the age of 88.
Spencer was born and raised in Washington, D.C., spending summers working on his family's dairy farm in Pennsylvania. He attended Everett Southern JT High School before pursuing higher education. He earned a BS from Juniata College in 1958, followed by an MD from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine in 1962. His early medical training included a rotating internship at Philadelphia General Hospital and a residency in psychiatry at Boston University. Spencer further honed his expertise with specialized training in Group Psychotherapy from the Washington School of Psychiatry and a Ph.D. in Confluent Education from the University of California, Santa Barbara.
Spencer's career as a psychiatrist spanned over six decades. His work was wide-ranging and impactful, from his early service as Medical Officer-in-Charge at the USPHS Indian Hospital in Mescalero, New Mexico, to his roles in the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) and National Institute of Education. He was the Associate Director of Psychiatry at the Patuxent Correctional Facility in Jessup, Maryland for nearly two decades, transforming the lives of countless inmates. He later served as a staff psychiatrist at Spring Grove Hospital and St. Elizabeth's Hospital, where he shared his passion for teaching with psychiatry residents for over twenty years and alongside his wife, Deborah Ward, LCSW-C through June 2024. His private practice, which began in 1965 and continued until his final days, focused on medication management and psychotherapy for individuals, couples, families, and groups.
Spencer met the love of his life, Deborah, at a New Year's Eve party in 1996, and the two were married on August 28, 1998. Their relationship was built on a foundation of love, respect, and mutual growth, and together they taught the next generation of mental health professionals.
Spencer's dedication to the field of psychiatry extended beyond his professional work. He was a proud member of the American Psychiatric Association (APA), Mid-Atlantic Imago Therapists (MAIT), and the American Educational Research Association. As an advocate for emotional wellness, he was particularly passionate about teaching Imago Relationship Therapy and Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy, where he helped his clients deepen their sense of connection, safety, and belonging.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Spencer found joy in simple pleasures. He spent hours curating a vast home library filled with books on psychology, philosophy, and personal development. He cherished his walks in Cabin John Park with his furry grandson, Tuffy, and was an active participant in the documentary Parts of Us, directed by his stepdaughter, Jen Kleiner.
Above all, Spencer was a deeply spiritual, compassionate man who listened intently to those around him. His presence made everyone feel valued and understood. His love for nature, his unquenchable curiosity, and his capacity for empathy will be remembered by all who had the honor of knowing him.
Dr. Spencer Ward is survived by his beloved wife of 26 years, Deborah Ward (nee Kleiner); devoted children, Edi Ward, Jean Lindauer, Jen Kleiner and Stephanie Kleiner-Morrissey (Marcus); cherished grandchildren, Daniele Wisniewski, Craig Lindauer, Cody Lindauer, Natasha Harris, Karissa Haserick, Michael Morrissey and Matthew Morrissey; and many loving nieces, nephews and great-grandchildren. His memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to love him.
Dr. Ward was predeceased by his adored daughter, Karen Ward; and dear parents, Edith and Newton Ward.
Services are private. In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be sent to the GoFundMe for Jen Kleiner's feature documentary called "Parts of Us" about the healing powers of IFS Therapy; or to causes that reflect Spencer's dedication to mental health and education. Click here for the GoFundMe