Dorothy Ann Ward

Dorothy Ann Ward

Saginaw, Michigan

Beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother went home to be with Jesus on Tuesday, December 13, 2022, with her family at her side, at the age of 92 years.

The daughter of the late James and Frances (Stephenson) Carter, Dorothy was born on July 16, 1930, in Kettering, Ohio. Upon graduating from high school, she bravely traversed to Intercession City Bible College in Florida to study nursing. After hearing a missionary speak, Dorothy changed course and spent the next six years in Papua New Guinea, with a year-old son in tow. Upon her return to the U.S. with two sons, she added three daughters to her family (she mostly raised her children by herself), all while working full time, being a pastor’s wife, and generously giving her time away to anyone who needed a ride to church, or the grocery store. Her generosity would continue even in the last six months at Great Lakes Rehab Center, where Dorothy shared treats her family sent her.

Dorothy was a trooper and throughout her life, she endured a great deal. Despite her very difficult life and circumstances, she remained resilient and steadfast in her faith.  Her favorite hymn was ‘What a Friend We Have in Jesus.’ In fact, she had a copy of the hymn sitting on her table in her apartment before she moved to the nursing home.

Surviving are her two sons, three daughters and their spouses: Jim and Sandi Ward, David and Michelle Ward, Becky and Tom McKim, Sharon and Dan West, Deborah and Tracy Hubbs; eleven grandchildren, sixteen great-grandchildren with one on the way; three great-great-grandchildren with one on the way. Also surviving are many nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends.

Honoring Dorothy’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A private family gathering honoring her life will take place at a later date. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to Great Lake Rehab Center: Activities Department.