"Judy was a remarkable person. I was blessed to be in her life and be inspired by her. I will miss our chats. My sincere condolences to the family. Love Erik Maskin "
In loving memory of
Judith Ann Ward
May 6, 1940 - December 18, 2022
Judith Ann (Katt) Ward, 82, passed away in Phoenix, Arizona on December 18, 2022. Mrs. Ward was born in Decatur, Illinois on May 6, 1940. Her family moved to St. Louis, Missouri when she was in elementary school. She graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Recreation Management from Mac Murray College in Jacksonville, Illinois, and pursued graduate work in special education at Arizona State University. Judy and her husband David Ward moved to Phoenix in 1965.
Mrs. Ward's career was spent mainly in education. Judy developed educational and recreational programs for private agencies, state institutions and elementary schools. She taught special education as well as 4th grade in the Madison School District, where she retired after 20 years of serving students. Judy and her husband were active philanthropists for the John C. Lincoln Health Foundation Guild and the HonorHealth Network. She and David enjoyed traveling and were active members in multiple antique car clubs. Judy also loved her country and was an active member of the Daughters of the American Revolution - Major Winfield Scott chapter. David and Judy's daughter, Donna Christine Ward Erwin, her husband Robert Joseph Erwin, Mrs. Ward's two grandchildren, Joseph David, and Elizabeth Kathryn, along with Elizabeth's husband Zackious Wiliam Gower, and their daughter Isabella Alice provided much love and joy. They all cherished their many times together in Phoenix, traveling in and out of the United States, and at their summer home in Pine, Arizona. Judy is also survived by her brother Karl William (Renee) Katt. She was preceded in death by her father William John Katt (1996), mother Elizabeth Louise Hainline Katt (2003), and husband David Frank Ward (2018).
Visitation will be from 5:00 to 7:00 pm on Tuesday, December 27 with funeral service at 7:00 pm at Hansen Desert Hills Mortuary, 6500 E. Bell Road in Scottsdale. Flowers are welcomed, or donations in memory of Judy may be directed to HonorHealth Foundation at honorhealthfoundation.org/donate/ Check the in honor box and gifts will be directed per Judy's wishes to the Desert Mission General Fund. Gifts can also be mailed to HonorHealth Foundation 8125 N. Hayden Rd Scottsdale, AZ 85258 writing Judy Ward in the memo line.
Please visit the tributes tab for the livestream link.
Tributes
"We will never forget Dave and Judy Ward's gracious hospitality in opening their home to us when my sister Ruth passed away in 1995. RIP, Judy. Holly and Nancy Henthorne"
"From seventh grade to the end of her earthly life, Judy Ward and I were dear friends. Although many miles eventually separated us, our friendship stood time?s test. One day, the Lord will reunite us. Until then, happy memories of laughter, sharing, and caring are of comfort. What a blessing that ?God gave us memory that we might have roses in December? (James Barrie). Barbara "
"?God gave us memories so we could have roses in December.? - David M. Barrie. Judy was always kind, generous and ready with a smile or a heart-warming laugh. I?m honored to have known her. Judy is that rose in December. "
"Judy will be missed I am very proud to have known her for so many years. RIP. Glen floe"