Ward Lamont Stone

Born March 22, 1938, Ward lived a life defined not simply by what he accomplished, but by the way he loved people. He was generous, funny, creative, sensitive, hardworking and deeply devoted to his family.

Ward proudly served in the United States Navy. Throughout his life, he demonstrated extraordinary perseverance. When life knocked him down, he got back up and kept moving forward, grounded by his faith in God and a deeply held belief that somehow, a way would be provided.

A painter by trade and an artist at heart, Ward possessed a remarkable creative spirit. He could put pencil to paper and bring to life something that had first existed only in his imagination. He worked and created with his hands throughout his life and passed that appreciation for creativity on to his children.

At the center of Ward's life was his beloved wife, Mariam Stone.

Remarkably, Ward and Mariam shared the same birthday, March 22, exactly two years apart—Ward born in 1938 and Mariam in 1940.

They shared nearly 68 years of marriage.

Ward adored Mariam, and Mariam adored him right back. Even after decades together, his face would light up when she entered a room. Together they experienced the joys, hardships, celebrations and challenges of a lifetime, remaining devoted to one another through thick and thin.

Ward passed just 17 days before what would have been their 68th wedding anniversary.

Their children had the extraordinary privilege of witnessing two people live the meaning of their vows—loving one another through nearly seven decades, until death did them part.

To his children, Ward was the father who loved unconditionally and would do anything for his children. He loved supporting them in their interests and enjoyed being a part of their lives.

Ward's warmth extended naturally to younger generations. Children gravitated toward him, and one of his naps could easily become a resting place for a little one curled up on his chest. His family will forever remember his humor, affection and the special nicknames he gave those he loved.

Ward is survived by his beloved wife, Mariam Stone; his children, Donna Roth and husband Kevin, Debra Martin-Stone, Denna Kelley-Stone, and Daniel Lamont Stone; his grandchildren, Shauna Roth and wife Monique Navarro and Brittney Flanders Roth and husband Alan Flanders Roth, Brandon Martin, Bryce Martin, Athena Kelley and Phoebe “Xan” Kelley; and his great-grandchildren, Nora June and Ezra.

He is also survived by his sister, Kimberly Soto, and her husband, George Soto; their children and families, including Sofiya and husband Bella , their children Botond and Arpad and Alyssa and husband Ram, their children Marilyn and Jeevan, and Chelsea and husband Andy; as well as extended family, treasured friends and members of the community whose lives Ward touched.

Ward's faith in God remained an important source of strength throughout his life. His family finds tremendous comfort in their belief that he is now at peace, free from pain and in the presence of Jesus.

His family will forever be grateful for the privilege of calling him husband, Dad, Grandpa, Great-Grandpa, brother and friend—and for the extraordinary life, love and example he leaves behind.