Mrs. Connie Ward

It is with profound love that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Constance Cranmer Ward, known affectionately as Connie, on May 21, 2023.

A memorial service to honor and celebrate her life and legacy will be held Saturday, May 27 at 11:00 a.m. at Covenant Presbyterian Church in Concord, NC, with family receiving guests at the church at 10:30 a.m.

Connie was born on March 14, 1931, in the beautiful town of Mount Holly, New Jersey, to her parents, Carl B. Cranmer and Marian Smith Cranmer. Connie spent her early years in Pemberton, New Jersey, until the age of five when her father became the manager of Jenny Jump State Park, and their family moved there. She cherished her childhood memories of growing up in Jenny Jump State Park until the age of 11 when her family was transferred to Trenton, New Jersey.

Connie was a dedicated scholar and achieved great academic milestones throughout her life. She graduated from Trenton High School, laying the foundation for her passion for education. She then pursued her dreams at Penn State, where she earned her Bachelor's degree in Education. During her time at Penn State, she also became a member of the Delta Delta Delta Sorority, forging lifelong friendships and fostering a sense of sisterhood. Undeterred by her achievements, she continued her educational journey, obtaining a Master's degree in Special Education from UNC Charlotte in 1983.

Connie’s teaching career began with six months of service in Trenton, after which she moved to Wilmington, Delaware, where she devoted three years to nurturing young minds. It was during this time that the fateful encounter occurred that would shape the rest of her life. Connie had known her future husband, Kenneth Barry Ward, since her high school days. They were introduced through their mutual connections with brothers, Bob and John Starrett and her girlfriends, Joyce Lynn and Grace Clee. In the true spirit of destiny, their love story blossomed, and on Thanksgiving Day in 1954, Connie and Barry became engaged. The couple exchanged vows and were united in marriage on August 13, 1955, in Trenton, New Jersey.

In 1956, Connie and Barry embarked on a new chapter in their lives, moving to Concord, where they laid down roots and built a loving home. Connie found fulfillment and purpose in her career as an educator, joining the dedicated faculty of Concord City Schools. Her passion for teaching and unwavering commitment to her students spanned several decades until her well-deserved retirement in 1995.

Beyond her professional life, Connie reveled in numerous activities and passions that brought her immense joy. She held family at the center of her heart, cherishing every moment spent with her loved ones. Her skilled hands brought life to beautiful creations through sewing and needlework, and she cultivated vibrant flower and vegetable gardens that mirrored her nurturing and creative spirit. Always adventurous, Connie enjoyed exploring new horizons through traveling, broadening her perspectives and creating treasured memories. On some of her favorite trips she explored Hawaii, Alaska, Russia, and Nova Scotia; and she treasured her annual beach camping trips with family and family friends. Her sharp mind, creativity, consideration and versatility made her a sought-after bridge partner and throughout her life in Concord she was a member of several bridge clubs. In her unwavering faith, she found solace and community at Covenant Presbyterian Church, where she was a cherished member.

Connie will be remembered as a woman of strength, compassion, and grace. Her love and guidance were a guiding light for her children, grandchildren, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. She leaves behind a lasting legacy of warmth, kindness, and devotion.

Connie is survived by her loving family, including her brother, Carl Cranmer and his family; children, Patricia, Kevin and spouse Tonya, Brian and spouse Marie; eight grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren; and a wide circle of extended family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, Connie and her family request contributions be made to Covenant Presbyterian Church, 731 Union Street S. Concord, NC 28025.

As we bid farewell to Constance Cranmer Ward, let us celebrate her life and the everlasting impact she had on those around her.