Barbara Ward, 94, passed away peacefully on August 8, 2026. A beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great-grandmother, sister, aunt, godmother and cherished friend, Barbara devoted her life to the people she loved and will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Barbara was the loving wife of William Ray “Bill” Ward for 65 years until his passing in 2016. Together, they built a beautiful family and a lifetime of memories that continue through their children, grandchildren and generations that followed.
She is survived by her daughters, Adonica Mares, Theresa McDonald, Tamara Berry, and son-in-law Tom Higdon; six grandchildren, Jesse Hernandez (Megan), Jennie Jacquez (Alfredo), Shanda McDonald, Cassie Hernandez, Kenneth Berry, Jr. (Monica), Samantha Harris (Andrew); 20 great-grandchildren; 3 great-great-grandchildren; her brother-in-law Philip Ward (Nancy) and a multitude of nieces, nephews and extended family members and friends.
Barbara was preceded in death by her beloved husband, William Ray “Bill” Ward; her son, William Ray “Billy” Ward, Jr.; her daughter, Patricia Higdon; sons-in-law Joe Mares and Roger McDonald; her sister Dorothy Dove (Robert Cecil), brothers Clarence Henry Elam, Robert Elam (Margaret); her grandson, I. Jose Frescas IV (Melissa); beloved husband of Melissa; and many other loved ones who now welcome her home.
Barbara was known for her warm heart, gentle spirit, and unwavering faith. She found joy in caring for her family, sharing stories, and creating a welcoming home where everyone felt loved. A devoted woman of faith, she leaned on her beliefs throughout her life and was a source of strength and comfort to those around her. She also enjoyed the simple pleasures of life—spending time with her grandchildren, tending to her home, and cherishing every moment with her loved ones.
Barbara had a beautiful love of music and especially loved to sing. Throughout her life, she shared that love through her involvement with Sweet Adelines, the St. Raphael Church Choir, the St. Pius Church Choir, and various other choirs. She was also a member of The Open Arms Community, where she found friendship, fellowship, and connection with others. These were among the many things that brought joy to her life and allowed her to share her warm spirit and love with those around her.
In her final moments, Barbara was surrounded by the love she spent her life giving so freely. She was held close by her daughters and granddaughters, the very ones she had nurtured and cared for, as she took her last breath peacefully, wrapped in their presence, prayers, and love.
Above all, Barbara will be remembered for the love she gave her family. Her legacy lives on in the children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren whose lives she touched. The memories she created, the lessons she taught, and the love she shared will remain with her family for generations to come.
She will be deeply missed, forever loved, and always remembered.
Please join our family in celebrating her life.
Visitation will be held on August 25, 2026, from 8:00 am to 9:00 am. with a funeral service at 9:00 am at Funeraria del Angel Restlawn Funeral Home, 8817 Dyer, El Paso, TX 79904.
Burial to follow at 11:00 am at Fort Bliss National Cemetery, 5200 Fred Wilson Ave. 79904.
