Tawanna Ann Ward

Tawanna Ann Tidmore Ward, 56, of Tyler, went to join her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Friday, August 1, 2014. She had battled non-alcoholic cirrhosis of the liver, among other ailments, for many years. Tawanna passed away in Athens, surrounded by her loving family and friends and her dogs.

Tawanna was born in Athens on January 14, 1958 to Charles and Elna Tidmore. She attended Tyler public schools and graduated from John Tyler High School in 1976.

Tawanna was preceded in death by her parents and by her grandson, James Brantley Odom. She is survived by her husband of 20 years, Kenneth Ward; daughters, Melissa Long and her husband Justin Long, and Brandy Odom and her husband Brian Odom; granddaughters, Jessica Long and Ava, Glory, and Grace Odom; grandsons, Jarrett Long and Daymon Odom sister, Lavonda Tidmore; Chihuahuas, Jack, Benny, and Pablo; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

Tawanna loved dogs, and had become certified as a veterinary assistant in hopes of devoting her time to helping animals. Sadly, her illness prevented her from realizing her dream. In light of this, the family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Pets Fur People, www.petsfurpeople.org.

Visitation will be held from 6:00-8:00 PM, Monday, Aug. 4, 2014 at Tyler Memorial Funeral Home, 12053 State Highway 64 West, Tyler; with funeral services at 1:00 PM, Tuesday, Aug. 5, 2014 also at the funeral home. Graveside services and interment will follow at the Tidmore Cemetery in Murchison.