Tina Marie Ward

WARD, Tina Marie, 55, of Richmond, Va., departed for her heavenly home on July 30, 2021 after an incredibly brave four-year battle with cancer. She was welcomed home by her mother, Dianne Mitchell, who made the journey ahead of her; as well as her grandparents, Isabelle Spear, Louis Spear, Eunice Lewis and Charles Gigante Sr.; and her beloved uncle, Wayne Carson. The broken hearts she leaves behind are many; her lifelong companion, Alvin Carter Sr.; daughter Krystle Oliver (Dean); three beautiful grandchildren, Alex, Jose and Isabella; her father, Charles Gigante Jr. (Leslie); her sister, Eva Marie Rucci; and her heart sister, Lois Cascio. She also leaves behind nieces and nephews, Sierra (Matt), Adam (Kelly); aunts, Sharon Payne and Joanie Gigante (Patrick); stepfather, Franklin Mitchell; and the co-workers and friends that brought her so much joy and comfort.

Tina was a longterm employee of WestRock in Richmond, servicing their customers and was proud to be part of a company that took such good care of her throughout her employment and her illness. She was deeply loyal to family, and most often could be found hanging out with her better half, enjoying time with her daughter and grandchildren and attending family gatherings which often involved playful shenanigans with her niece and nephew, homemade Italian food and mac and cheese cookoffs with her sister. She loved the ocean and often enjoyed trips to the beach with family. Her television was constantly tuned to classic shows on MeTV because it brought her back to simpler times and her childhood.

Tina had a fierce, unwavering spirit that has taught us all a lesson on strength and courage over the years. She was supportive, loving and compassionate, always putting others above herself. She was a bit of a diva, and quite feisty at times but also had a fun, silly sense of humor that promoted good times and laughter. She has been an inspiration. She is our HERO. She will be sorely missed, but her light will live on in our hearts forever.

During her illness, her family had the privilege of "circling the wagons," as her father often says, to ensure she was cared for. We would also like to thank the doctors, nurses and medical professionals for their love, expertise and support. They treated us like family, did all they could to help, and eventually kept her comfortable in her final days. Tina had come to know the Lord in recent years and was very much looking forward to His return. Her hope will not be disappointed. She will be with Him when He appears to gather those of us who remain.

Family and friends are invited to pay their final respects on the morning of Friday, August 6, 2021, from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at Bliley's Funeral Home, 8510 Staples Mill Road, Richmond, Va. This will be followed by a procession to a 1 p.m. Celebration of Life service at Signal Hill Memorial Park, located at 12360 Hanover Courthouse Rd., Hanover, Va. 23069. Please meet at Bliley's between 11 a.m. and 11:45 a.m. Friday, August 6, 2021. The family respectfully request that face coverings be worn throughout all services.