Marjorie M. Ward

Marjorie Marie Ward, 100 years young, of Rutledge, Missouri passed away Thursday morning, April 2, 2026 surrounded by her loved ones. The daughter of Cecil Paul and Ethel Ambrose Starkey. She was born December 21, 1925 in Hudson, Illinois. She attended school Hudson where she graduated. After graduation she worked at Steak 'n' Shake and at an Ice House. On February 10, 1946 she married Lloyd Ward in Bloomington, Illinois and to this union two children were born, Connie and Robert. In 1952 Marjorie, Lloyd and Lloyd's brother, Orville along with his wife Donna moved to Missouri where they purchased a farm south of Rutledge. Marjorie lived in Rutledge area for 74 years. Marjorie was active in the local 4-H and a member of Rutledge Eastern Star for 72 years. Marjorie and her best friend, Eileen McCabe, managed the cook shacks at the Rutledge Dog Sale/Flea Market to benefit numerous community organizations for a number of years. She enjoyed the life of farming but her passion was gardening and canning. Where she spent countless hours tending to flowers and plants. It was there she found peace, purpose, and a reflection of the care she gave so naturally to others. Marjorie lived a long and meaningful life centered around family, friendship, and hard work. She had a heart that gave freely and deeply always putting others before herself. Whether through a warm meal, a kind word, or simply her presence. She made everyone around her feel loved and valued.

She is preceded in death by her parents, one brother Bill Starkey, six sister-in-laws Sarah Becker, Geneva Canfield, Donna Miller, Jenny Fulk, Doris Miles, and Bobbie Starkey. Five brother-in-laws, Orville Ward, John Becker Jr, Edwin Canfield, Berdel Fulk, and Glen Miles. One son-in-law, Ray Ward and one daughter-in-law, Merry Ward. One step-granddaughter, Heather Ward and one step great-granddaughter, Tierra Stanberry.Surviving relatives include her daughter Connie Ward of Rutledge, Missouri and one son Robert "Bob" Ward of Edina, Missouri. Three grandchildren, Joey Ann Hintz and her husband Terry of Nekoosa, Wisconsin, Robert Ward and wife Maranda of Edina, Missouri, Sarah Huffman and husband Bobby of Edina, Missouri. Nine great grandchildren Jessica, Kory, and Logan Hintz, Preston, Wesley, Elijah, and Mattie Ward, Max Montgomery and Mya Huffman. Seven step great grandchildren Taylor Clary and Christopher Huffman, Natasha Edelman, Tayler Stines, Kailee Tungate, Joslyn and Landon Stanberry. Fifteen step great great grandchildren Liam Hintz, Warren and Walker Clary, Ruger and Remington Edelman, Autumn, Nicolas, Zach, Jadeyn, Ashlynn, Cadence, Summer Stines, and Jackson and Kooper Tungate.

Her home was a place of comfort, laughter, and connection. A gathering place for family and friends who will forever cherish the memories made there. Marjorie's life was a testament to kindness, resilience, and unwavering love.