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Obituaries

Joy Lavae Ward

08/25/1931 - 06/28/2023

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Obituary For Joy Lavae Ward

Joy LaVae Ward, 91, of Sherman, Texas passed away on June 28th, 2023. She was born to the late, Grady Brown and Johnnie LaVae Brown, on August 25th, 1931, in Bethel Community near Whitewright. Joy loved life and her church family. She became a member of East Sherman Baptist Church on December 29, 1974, and was soon baptized the following week. She loved spending time with her family, going to church events, and enjoying the outdoors by camping. In 1961, she met and married the love of her life. They were married for a total of 56 years and were only separated by death.

She is preceded in death by her loving husband, Sidney “Joe” Ward, and her parents.

She is survived by her son, Phillip Dial (Linda) of Sherman, Texas; daughter, Carolyn Lorenz (Richard) of California; fifteen grandchildren; three great grandchildren; special mention to her great grandson, Jacob Hopper for his loyal help the last few years; along with a special mention to Heart to Heart Hospice for their dedicated care; along with numerous other family and friends who all love her and will miss her dearly.

A celebration of Joy's life will be held on Monday, July 3, 2023, at 11:00 AM in the Dannel Funeral Home Chapel in Sherman. Bro. Rob Sheppard of New Heritage Baptist in Sherman will officiate. The family will greet friends one hour prior to the service on Monday.

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  • 07/03/2023

    joanne Dickey

    What a sweet joy to have known Joy! Joe and Norman played fast pitch softball together in Sherman for "big red Texaco" team back in the 60's and 70s. We wives loved it also because of the fellowship, trips, and visiting. Joy was always so fun to be with. I'm sorry for your loss. Joanne Dickey

  • 07/02/2023

    Cynthia Dement Cunnyngham

    Phillip and Carolyn, I will always remember the many times that my parents camped with Joe and Joy. There was always laughter and lots of food. Joy was always a delight to be with and was truly a wonderful friend. There is definitely rejoicing in heaven today! May be God bless you during this time! Hal and Cynthia (Dement) Cunnyngham

  • 07/02/2023

    Bill Goodwin

    Carolyn and Phillip, Sorry to hear of the passing of your mother. I remember her smile and laughter several years ago when I was able to visit. Joy was always pleasant with a kind word to say about everything and every body. I know she will be missed by the both of you, your family, and all her friends. Bill Goodwin

  • 07/01/2023

    Carol Wiley Toll

    Carolyn & Phillip, The picture of your Mom is exactly as I remember her from when we were in school together! She looks as pretty and joyful as ever! I'm so very sorry I won't be able to be with you on Monday as you celebrate your Mom's long and wonderful life, but we will be traveling. I will be thinking about you and your families on Monday morning and praying for your comfort and peace. Love you, Carol Wiley Toll

  • 06/30/2023

    Andrew Brockelman

    Joy truly lived up to her name. She was a joy in every sense of the word. We will miss her but her legacy will live on in her children. She loved them dearly. I know where she is today and know I will see her again one day. Praise the Lord for her Christian witness.

  • 06/28/2023

    Peter Phillips

    Philip & Carolyn, What a beautiful photo of your mom. You were blessed to have her for such a long time. One of my earliest memories is the three of us walking home from Jefferson school on what must have been Election Day, 1960, and asking each other, "Who is YOUR mom going to vote for?" You have my sincere sympathy, thoughts, and prayers.

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