Elvira, the second of 11 children, was born January 25, 1944, to Ramon and Christina Urias. While living in Yuma, she graduated from Yuma High School, and attended Arizona Western College receiving her AA. In 1966, she married Leroy Ward, and they had four children together.
She enjoyed children and worked as a preschool and early childhood educator. She was known for her storytelling, love of Bingo, puzzles, and games. She enjoyed dancing, listening to country music, or songs from the 50s and 60s. Some of her favorite singers’ or groups were Freddy Fender, Eddie Rabbit, and The Oak Ridge Boys.
Called home by our Lord and Savior, June 10, 2018; Elvira is reunited in death by her husband, parents, and grandparents. She will be greatly missed by all generations of family members and close friends.
Elvira is survived by her children: three daughters and a son; plus six grand-children, and great-granddaughter. She is also survived by her 10 siblings: Lupe Dominguez (Manual) and Christina Mahoney of Phoenix AZ, Beckie Steiner (Rich) of San Marcos, CA, Rosie Crowell (Steve) of Russellville, AR, Gilbert Urias (Brigitta) of Tempe, AZ, Connie DeCorse, Ray Urias (Judy), Lucy Beecher, Dan Urias (Ana), and Victor Urias, all of Yuma, AZ.
