Leona Ward

Leona Jean (Fenn) Ward, 82, of Independence, MO, passed away Wednesday, November 18, 2009 at the Groves. She was born October 28, 1927 to Weaver and Bertha (Bebensee) Fenn of Carson, Iowa. She was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers; Charles and Darrell Fenn. She is survived by 2 sisters, Myrtha Robinson, Joan Slaght, and brother, Carl Fenn, all residents of Independence, Mo. She is also survived by her husband of 25 years (1948-1973) Joseph Kenneth Ward and their children; David J. Ward and his wife Karen of Lower Kalskag, AK; Kenneth E. Ward and his wife Sharon of Independence, MO; Craig B. Ward and his wife Nanette of Ashland, MO; Deborah J. (Ward) Spiers and her husband Kent of Kansas, City, MO; and Jeffrey L. Ward and his wife Becky of Kearney, MO. She leaves eight grandchildren; Steve & Joel Ward, Kai Lynn Ward, Haley Ward, Jessie Wise, Matt, Mark and Megan Garringer, and many nieces, nephews and friends. Jean graduated from Carson Consolidated High School in 1945 and from Graceland College in 1947. She learned to drive at age 50 and completed LPN training at the Jenny Lund School of Practical Nursing shortly after. She worked as a nurse in the...[more]

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nsas City School District, the Independence Public School District, and The Groves. She studied sign language to help her communicate with the deaf. She lived her life devoted to her family, her work as a caring nurse, and her church. She served as a volunteer for Skylarks, Orioles, Cub Scouts, Downey Duck Preschool, Camp Moja, Camp Opportunity and Community of Christ Temple. She gave manicures to residents of Rosewood at The Groves for as long as she was able. She enjoyed gardening, crocheting and knitting. Funeral services were held at 10:00 AM Saturday, November 21, 2009 at Carson-Speaks Chapel; 1501 W. Lexington Ave. Independence, MO. Graveside services were held at 3:00 PM, November 21, 2009 at Carson Cemetery, Carson, IA. Memorial contributions are suggested to Outreach International or the Community of Christ Church Temple Fund.