Deanna June Ward, born March 11, 1939, in San Antonio, Texas, peacefully entered eternal rest on April 1, 2026, at the age of 87, surrounded by her loving family.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 66 years, James E. Ward; her parents, Milton Raymond and Lillian Emily Gavlick; her brother, Milton Raymond Gavlick Jr.; and her cherished granddaughter, Tyler Raeh Ward.

Deanna is survived by her five children and their families: Jamie Ward Jr. and Jennifer; Becky and Barry Childers; Candy and David Zachary; Ricky and Natty Ward; and Jeff and Rhonda Ward. She is also survived by her sisters, Susie Gavlick, Mary Stalter, and Karen (Eddie) Shannon; her brother, Tommy (Brenda) Gavlick; her sister-in-law, Judy Gavlick; and many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

She is lovingly remembered by her grandchildren, who all knew her as "Grandma". Mandy and Darin Thorn; Jessica Bennett and Brandon Weathers; Allen Zachary; Kristi and Erik Elizondo; Kimberly Ward and Smee Tem; Nicki Zachary and Ty Early; Ryan and Mitzi Ward; Sarah, Sydney, Nathan, and Natalie Ward; and Jordyn and Jayce Ward. She is also survived by her great-grandchildren: Baylee, Leann, and Tyla Thorn; Alex Weathers; Gabe and Isaac Diaz; Olivia, Logan, and Georgiana Zachary; Kade and Dylan Campbell; Scarlett, Olive, and Marley Elizondo; and Harper Raeh Ward; as well as her bonus great-great-grandchildren: Landen, J.D., Donavyn, and Jaiden Dugart.

There could never be just one story to define Deanna June Ward—our beloved mother and grandmother. As the eldest of her siblings, she was affectionately known as "Anno." From a young age, she learned to drive and even crank a Model T beside her father. Her childhood included traveling with her family to California, Idaho, and beyond, eventually they returned to San Antonio.

Deanna's love for the arts emerged early in life. She danced in recitals, played the piano, sang, and learned to sew—talents that flourished throughout her lifetime. A gifted student, she remained a lifelong learner, always curious and eager to try something new.

As a devoted wife to James E. Ward for 66 years, Deanna was the heart and foundation of her family. A proud United States Air Force wife, she embraced the challenges of military life with grace and resilience, navigating frequent moves across the country while raising five children. No matter where life led them, she created a warm, loving home that made her family feel safe, supported, and deeply loved.

A devoted Catholic and faithful servant of God, Deanna's faith was the cornerstone of her life. She was an active member of her parish and the Catholic Daughters of the Americas for 19 years, serving faithfully in numerous ministries. She welcomed new parishioners, organized blood drives, served the homebound, and helped with church festivals—always giving generously of her time and heart. Her life reflected her faith through compassion, humility, and quiet strength.

Among her many accomplishments, Deanna received the Editor's Choice Award for Outstanding Achievement in Poetry from The National Library of Poetry in 1996 for her poem Wildflowers of Easter. She was honored as Catholic Daughter of the Year in 2012 and recognized by the American Red Cross for her volunteer service during Tropical Storm Allison. She also received her 60-year membership pin from the Grand Lodge of the Order of the Sons of Hermann in the State of Texas. Deanna proudly supported the Wounded Warrior Project.

Creative and spirited, Deanna found joy in painting, poetry, sewing, embroidery, and many other artistic pursuits; creating pieces that will be treasured for years to come. A true believer in lifelong growth, she earned her GED at the age of 50—an achievement that reflected her conviction that it is never too late to learn and follow your dreams. Earning her GED later in life, enriched her knowledge and supported her professional journey. She built a respected career of fifteen years as a Healthcare Billing Coordinator, mastering the complexities of medical office operations.

She embraced life with enthusiasm and adventure, whether traveling with family or trying something new. Independent, strong-willed, and full of life, Deanna loved to dance (as a devoted George Strait fan), enjoyed BBQ cook-offs and rodeo season, and was an accomplished bowler—rolling multiple perfect games and serving as a league vice president. She had a special gift for making others feel valued, never missing a birthday and delighting loved ones with personal, thoughtful gifts.

Above all, Deanna cherished her family. She found her greatest joy as a wife, mother, and grandma. Her warm greeting of "Hey Babe" will forever echo in the hearts of those who loved her.

You were not only our Mom – you were our greatest supporter, our listener and our constant source of love.

Deanna's vibrant spirit, generosity, and unwavering faith will continue to live on through all who were blessed to know her. She will be forever loved and remembered.

"The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want… Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life." — Psalm 23:1, 6

The family extends heartfelt gratitude for the compassionate care provided to our beloved mother during her final days at HCA Houston Healthcare Kingwood.