Stephanie Carole Ward

Stephanie Carole Ward, 73, of Ponca City, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully on February 12, 2026, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, surrounded by family.

Stephanie was born on April 7, 1952, in Ponca City to George Eugene Carter and Mary Juanita Carter. She grew up alongside her siblings, Mary Jean, Rebecca Jane, and John Dennis, forming the strong family bonds that would define her life.

Stephanie worked several different jobs throughout the years, but her greatest joy and proudest accomplishment was being a mother. Her family was the center of her world, and she poured her heart into raising her children and later cherishing her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She was first married to J.R. Bales Jr., and from that union came multiple children who were the light of her life. In October 1986, she married LeRoy Fred Ward. They shared a devoted marriage until his passing in 2019 and welcomed one daughter together.

Stephanie is survived by her children: Antoinette and her husband Barton Graham of Ponca City and their children Tyler, Ashtin, Annie, and EmmaKate; Nicole and her husband William Smith of Ponca City and their children Lakan, Colby, Tristan, Madi, Chase, and Noah; Robert Bales and his wife Kelly of Ponca City and their children Gavyn and Torrance; Ali and her husband Stephen of Bothell, WA and their children Tanner and Lillith; Todd Bales and his wife Annette of Broken Arrow and their son Ben; and Rebecca Ward of Warr Acres. She was also blessed with numerous great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; two sisters; her sons, Kevin and Blake (Pyt); one grandchild; and her beloved husband, LeRoy.

Stephanie enjoyed sewing, cooking, beadwork, and reading. In her younger years, she was deeply involved in youth sports and supported countless children from the sidelines. She was a kind and loving person who welcomed her children's friends as if they were her own. Known for her humor, quick wit, and quiet wisdom, she left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her. Stephanie loved the Lord and would join her children at church as often as she could.

Public viewing will be held at Trout Funeral Home on Friday, February 27, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. A small graveside service will follow at 2:00 p.m. at Otoe-Missouria Cemetery on February 27, 2026. Arrangements are under the direction of Trout Funeral Home & Crematory, 505 W Grand Ave, Ponca City, OK 74601.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to Northern Oklahoma Humane Society, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, or to local youth sports programs.

Stephanie's legacy of love, laughter, and devotion to family will live on through the many lives she touched.