June Benge Ward

The beautiful soul of June Benge Ward is now at rest. What an amazing 106 year journey. Those that were lucky enough to have shared time with her were truly fortunate and enriched. She was a genuine blessing, and lovely soul. She lived by the golden rule, and we all shine brighter having known her. June Benge Ward was born February 10, 1907 to Ella and Louie Ross Benge, in Fort Gibson, Indian Territory. She was the middle child of seven brothers and sisters. She moved to Oklahoma City in 1935, and married the love of her life, Fred Ward in 1939. They were lucky enough to spend close to 30 years together. They enjoyed traveling to Colorado, and spending time with family and friends. Junie, as her friends and family called her, was an integral part of the Mannix and Maziere families. She was a friend and neighbor who felt like family. She was a caring, giving person who shared her time and wisdom unconditionally. She was a proud member of the Cherokee nation. She was a member of N W Baptist Church, order of the Amaranth and Eastern Star, a member of the Retired Firefighter’s Association, and Oklahoma City County Employee Association. Most importantly, she was a shining beacon in our family. She has a niece Mae Bradley, living in Oklahoma, whom she loved. Nephew, Jim Hunter and wife Joyce, were loving and dedicated. He called her every week to check on her and share time. Perhaps most dedicated, Martha Jane, also a niece, loved her as her own mother. They made each other better people. Junie lived alone and Martha, of Lewisville, TX, made the trip at least once a month to help care for her needs. Martha called her every night to check on her, enabling Junie to stay in her beloved home longer. Junie finally consented at the age of 103, to move to TX and live with Martha, “for a while”. Unfortunately, Martha went on her spirit journey a few months later. Junie is preceded in death by her husband, Fred, parents, and all of her 6 siblings, her niece, Martha, and many, many friends and other family. She is survived by niece, Mae Bradley of Oklahoma, nephew, Jim Hunter, wife Joyce, of California, and Amy Lee, grandniece, husband Don, children McKenna, Jessica, and Jack of Southlake TX,....who have been so fortunate to have had the honor of having Aunt Junie live with them for the past 2 and a half years. She has added untold grace to our lives. A special thanks to the hospice nurses and caregivers who have helped us care for such an amazing soul. She will be missed.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, October 18, at Guardian West Funeral Home at 9:00 am. She will be laid to rest at the National Cemetery in Fort Gibson, Oklahoma, with her beloved Fred. Graveside services at 1:00.