Maryanne Theresa Ward

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of MaryAnne, a beloved teacher, and cherished friend. MaryAnne departed from this world on February 19, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and dedication to the children she taught and the friends she held dear.

MaryAnne dedicated her life to shaping the minds and bodies of countless young students as a classroom teacher and Physical Education teacher at various schools in NISD. Her passion for instilling a love for physical activity in her students was evident in every spirited class she conducted. Through her warm and encouraging demeanor, she not only taught the importance of fitness but also imparted valuable life lessons of teamwork, perseverance, and sportsmanship. In addition, she brought the classroom into her physical education teaching. You could hear her say- a touchdown is 6 points, a two-point conversion is worth 2 points. If you add 6+2, what do you get?

Beyond the school grounds, MaryAnne found joy in her cherished friendships with fellow educators. Every summer for over 30 years, she and her friends would spend a week at the beach. Along with going to the beach, they visited Hawaii and New York. She looked forward to the annual beach trips and enjoyed the time spent with her friends.

MaryAnne is survived by her loving mother, Loretta Ward, brother, Richard Ward and wife Jeanette, nephew, John Ward and wife Jackie, 5 great nieces and nephews, nieces, Laura Ward and two great nephews, Katie Ward, and Elizabeth Ward, aunt, Joan St. John and cousins, Lisa Miller and husband Roy, and Andrea Salinas and husband, Rod. She is preceded by death of her father, Major Thomas J. Ward and brother, Robert Ward, grandmothers Elvera Ward and Carmela Rossi.

In addition to her immediate family, MaryAnne leaves behind a vast network of friends who became an extended family throughout her lifetime. The impact of her kindness and friendship will be felt for years to come.

MaryAnne was a truly special person, who made a positive impact on everyone she met. She put everyone first, had a genuine heart and never complained. She was an avid reader and loved putting together puzzles. She had a strong faith and volunteered in the church.

In celebration of MaryAnne's life, a memorial service will be held on Monday, March 4, 2024, at 12:00 PM at Porter Loring Mortuary North. Entombment will follow in Holy Cross Mausoleum. Friends, colleagues, and students whose lives she touched are invited to join in remembering the beautiful soul who brought kindness to the lives of so many.