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.