Lynn Ann Ward

Lynn Ann Arthur Ward, 81, passed away in her home on Mother’s Day, May 11, 2025, surrounded by her family.

Born in 1944 in Chicago, Illinois, Lynn moved to Augusta, Georgia, as a young child and spent the rest of her life proudly rooted in the community she loved. A graduate of Sacred Heart and Aquinas High School (Class of 1962), Lynn dedicated her life to helping others, both professionally and personally. She worked in the medical field for many years—first as an administrative assistant in the Burn Center at Doctors Hospital, then in the lab, and later in Labor and Delivery at University Hospital.

Lynn proudly competed in the Miss Augusta Pageant and modeled for JB White’s and Carr’s of Augusta, embracing every moment with confidence and charm. She had a deep love for animals, especially horses. In her younger years, she competed at stables across Georgia and South Carolina, placing in many competitions.

Lynn’s servant heart extended far beyond her work. She was a longtime volunteer with the Red Cross, the March of Dimes, and the Special Olympics. She spent 17 years as a beloved Candy Striper (Pink Lady) at St. Joseph Hospital—15 of those years pushing the hospitality cart to every floor with a warm smile. For 20 years, she gave her time to the Augusta Southern National Drag Boat races. She also devoted herself to several recovery communities: Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Narcotics Anonymous (NA), and Al-Anon—a support program for those affected by a loved one’s addiction. She opened her home and her heart to countless people in recovery, becoming a second mother to many and a safe place for all.

She was a fixture at St. Mary’s School, where her children and grandchildren attended. Lynn volunteered in the lunchroom, on field trips, in the library, and served on the PTO for many years. One of the greatest joys of her life was supporting the Aquinas Fighting Irish. Rain or shine, Lynn never missed a game. Even after her grandchildren had graduated, she still found a seat on the fan bus, the cheerleader bus, the drum corps bus—or hitched a ride with friends to be on the 50-yard line. If she couldn’t attend in person, she was at the Knights of Columbus cheering them on as the game streamed live. For Lynn, Aquinas wasn’t just a school—it was family. Every player, cheerleader, parent, and coach held a place in her heart.

Lynn never met a stranger. She believed deeply in equality and treated everyone with warmth and dignity. She called everyone “Shugga,” and she meant it. Whether chatting at a yard sale, flea market, or in the grocery store aisle, Lynn was always connecting with others. She was known for her selflessness, boundless energy, and her unmatched generosity—she’d give you her last dollar without a second thought.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Mary Ellen O’Conner Arthur and John Henry Arthur; her birth father, John Thurmon Warner, who was killed in action during World War II; her sister, Margaret Claire Williams; her beloved sons, John Thurmon Ward and Laurence Patrick Ward; and the father of her children, Laurence Joseph Ward.

She is survived by her daughter, Melinda Rae’ Ward Dansby (Jamey); her brother, John Patrick Arthur; her grandchildren: Lauren Dansby Henthorn, James Brey Dansby, Greggory Laurence Ward, and Alexandra Ward Mannino (Philip); and her great-grandchildren: Matthew Wells Henthorn, James Andrew Henthorn, Ava Blair Ward, Laurence Arnold Thurmon Ward, and John Anthony Mannino.

She is also survived by her daughter-in-law, Pam Arnold Ward; her nieces and nephews: John Jeffrey Williams (Katy) and their children, Jeffrey Arthur (Archie) Williams and Rosalie Claire Williams; Megan Arthur Mask (Trey) and their children, John William Mask, Oliver Patrick Mask, and Madeleine Ann Mask; Kelsey Arthur Davis (Kyle) and their daughter, Virginia Ann Davis; and Patrick Brian Arthur.

And finally, she is survived by her loyal companion and best friend, her dog, Sir Arthur.

Lynn leaves behind a legacy of unconditional love, unwavering strength, and endless compassion. Her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

A funeral Mass will be held on Friday, May 16, 2025, at 2:00 PM at St. Mary on the Hill Catholic Church, with Father Nate Swann officiating. Interment will follow at Westover Memorial Park. The family will receive friends prior to the service from 1:00 to 2:00 PM at the church.

Pallbearers will be Jamey Dansby, Brey Dansby, Pat Arthur, Jeff Williams, Greggory Ward, Patrick Arthur, and Frank Ward.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Hale Foundation at https://www.thehalefoundation.com.