Lois D. Ward, 97, of Crisfield (Hopewell), Maryland formerly of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania passed away peacefully Wednesday, December 31, 2025 at TidalHealth Peninsula Regional in Salisbury, Maryland.
Lois D. Holden was born on April 30, 1928, to the late Jency and Bertram Holden. She was one of ten children and the second youngest. Throughout her life she expressed how her family lineage was rich with love from her siblings, in-laws, nieces, nephews, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, cousins, and extended family- both in blood and community.
During her formative years Lois attended Somerset County Public Schools and graduated from Crisfield Colored High School, in 1946. After graduation she joined some of her older siblings in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where they helped her achieve her goals. While there, she graduated from Craig Beauty School, becoming a licensed beautician, and eventually operating her own business and beauty shop.
In 1949 she married her high school sweetheart, William H. Ward Sr. together they had two children: William H. Ward Jr. (Cordelia) and Camella Ward. While raising her children, she was a dedicated and loving homemaker, PTA member, and active community member. In addition to raising her family, she continued to embrace her Christian values by joining Fifty Ninth Street Baptist Church in Philadelphia. After her children left home to pursue their careers, she returned to work, eventually retiring from Somerset Knitting Mills as a Quality Control Inspector.
In 1991, she and William moved back to the Eastern Shore of Maryland to his family’s homestead. There they built their own home and warmly welcomed friends and family to visit. During her retired years, church and family were of utmost importance to her. She became a dedicated communion steward at her home church, Ebenezer United Methodist Church in Marumsco, Maryland. Lois found tremendous joy and purpose in the reverent work as a servant to the Lord.
In her spare time, she enjoyed caring for her beautiful garden, decorating her home, and hosting loved ones. Spending time with her William of 71 years always remained her priority. As a strong mother figure, she was always there for her children and cherished her two grandchildren: grandson, William Ward III (lovingly referred to as Billy) and granddaughter, Lena Ward, who greatly admired and cared for her.
Lois’ siblings also remained an important part of her life. As the last surviving sibling, she was preceded in death by sister, Sarah (Stanford), brother, William (Eva), brother, Earl (Tyvola), brother, Fulton (Bessie), sister, Lola (Dave), sister, Etta (James), sister, Hilda (George), sister Vivian, (Calvin), and her baby sister, Louise (H. Dwayne).
A funeral service will be held 1:00 PM Saturday, January 17, 2026 at Ebenezer United Methodist Church , 5355 Cornstack Road, Marion Station ,Maryland with a viewing one hour prior. A public viewing will be held 2:00 PM-6:00 PM Friday, January 16, 2026 at Anthony E. Ward, Jr. Funeral Home in Princess Anne , Maryland.
Interment will be held 1:30 PM, Tuesday, January 20, 2026 at Springhill Memory Gardens, 27260 Ocean Gateway, Hebron, Maryland.
15 Responses
So sorry to hear that Lois has passed away. Condolences and sincere sympathy to the family. Prayers for all of you during this difficult time.
The thoughts of condolence is greatly appreciated.
The Ward family.
Sincere condolences to the family. May God grant peace and comfort during this sad time. Treasure the many fond memories during Ms. Lois long tenure.
George, Lloyd, and Samuel Ward
Sincere condolences to the family. May God grant peace and comfort during this sad time. Treasure the many fond memories shared during Ms. Lois’ long tenure.
Words can’t express what the heart feels and what this family is experiencing at this time. My prayer is for comfort, because your loss is beyond all understanding.
Thank you for your prayers and concern.
The Ward family.
My heart felt condolences to the family 🙏🏾 Ms Lois had such a sweet and calming spirit. My prayer is for God to strengthen you all during this difficult time and give you His peace 🕊️
Thank you from the family.
So very sorry to hear of Miss Lois’ passing. She had such a sweet spirit. My deepest sympathy and condolences to the family. Praying that God will bring you comfort and strength to endure at this difficult time.
My condolences to the family 🙏
Ms. Lois was grace and she constantly shared it freely with love. We were touched by our kindness and generosity. Rest in Peace. Our condolences to the family.
Thank you so much for the kind words. From the family
Miss Lois’ passing has been felt all the way down in Georgia. She was a sweet lady and full of grace. My deepest sympathy and condolences to the family. Praying that God will grant you peace and strength to endure at this difficult time.
The extension of your care and compassion is greatly appreciated. Thank you so much for the condolences.
The family.
Our deepest sympathy is going to all the family and friends 🙏