Martha Jane Ward
1 Post Condolences
Martha Jane Ward, age 72 of Alma, passed away Wednesday, August 3, 2022 at MyMichigan Medical Center in Alma.
Martha was born April 12, 1950 in Alma to Vincent and Isabelle Mae (Patterson) Derby. She married Gordon Ray Ward January 30, 1976.
Martha was extremely devoted to her family and loved them immensely. As her children grew up, she was able to stay home and take care of them. She loved her grandchildren and was very involved in all they did. Martha was extremely proud of her home and enjoyed hosting and attending big family gatherings there.
Martha enjoyed sewing, cooking, baking and taking care of others. In fact, if you visited her home and didn’t eat she was offended. Martha was known for welcoming anyone into her home. Once her children had grown, she continued her work as a caretaker working for the Gratiot Commission on Aging and providing in home care for others.
Martha will be remembered not only for her love and care of her family and others, but also as a very spunky person who freely shared her opinions.
Martha is survived by her husband of 45 years, Gordon Ward; daughters Tamra Ward, Jenelle (Adan) Saavedra, Kristie Gruesbeck (Jeff Saunders); son Bryan (Beth) Gruesbeck; grandchildren Anna, Chloe, Vincent, Madison, Jayden, Jackson, Bryce, Isabella; sister Carolyn Otterbine; and twin brother Mark Derby. She is preceded in death by her parents Vincent and Isabelle Derby, brother Phillip Derby, and sister Sally Liberty.
A memorial visitation will be held from noon-2pm on Saturday, August 20, 2022 at the Barden Funeral Home in Ithaca. Condolences may be left for the family online at www.bardenfuneralhome.com.
Reader Comments (1)
The Derby family has been part of my life since I was about 13 yrs. old. We called Martha’s parents mom and dad Detby. We got called out on things just like Martha did, mom Derby didn’t discriminate when she was angry! We hung out with the brothers and sisters in their homes as well. Martha was one of the funniest people I have ever had the privilege of knowing. Her quiet demeanor only existed if you weren’t close enough to catch the dry humor of her remarks. We spent hrs. at Crystal Lk., also at Harrison in mom and dad’s trailer until they were asked to leave the park because of late night activities. Hell hard no fury like what Isabel handed out to us. Martha loved her babes, each one of you I knew from birth until leaving home. She was an amazing loving lady which I remained to be friends with of until we moved away. Martha and her family will remain in my heart with love and admiration.
May you find peace in knowing you had the benefit of having her for a mom, sister, friend. RIP my friend, you will never be forgotten. ❤️