Patricia "Pat" Cora Louise (Stiritz) Ward, 83 was called home to heaven on Wednesday, September 28, 2022 in Arcadia, FL. Born September 19, 1939, in Godfrey, Illinois, she was the daughter of the late Joseph B. and Eunice (McDow) Stiritz.

Pat married John L. Ward on January 26, 1961, and served as a Navy wife as John was stationed up and down the east coast for the first twenty years of their marriage. Pat was involved with many activities with other service families while their spouses were away for extended periods of time serving their country. She was known for her homemade cooking and also enjoyed helping with the boys' little league baseball teams. She also enjoyed camping, crafts, painting and knitting. She loved watching her baseball Cardinals and rarely missed a game. After their time in the Navy, Pat and her family settled in South Roxana, IL where she was involved with her church and other social clubs and worked in a local diner where many locals came to enjoy her famous biscuits and gravy. John and Pat retired to Arcadia, FL. in 2001 where she remained active in her church and other activities.

In addition to her husband of 61 years, Pat is also survived by her three sons- Donald (Janet) of South Roxana, IL; Greg (Elaine) of Arcadia, FL. ; and Keith (Karyn) of Maryville, IL; five grandchildren- Chelsie Ward, Casey Ward, Katelyn Ward, Tyler Ward and Mindy Lawson; two greatgrandchildren-Jax Ward and Keira Lawson; and one sister, Linda Boehler of Godfrey, IL.

Along with her parents, Pat was preceded in death by two brothers, Gene and William (Bill) Stiritz, and three sister, Betty Siemer, Janet Ragsdale and Peggy Stiritz.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 15, 2022, at 3:00P.M. at the 1st Christian Church in Arcadia, Florida.

Online condolences can be made at www.pongerkaysgrady.com

Ponger-Kays-Grady Funeral Homes & Cremation Services have been entrusted with the arrangements.