Barbara J. Ward

Barbara "Barb" Ward, born May 16, 1948, in McFarland, Wisconsin, to Lee and Eleanor South, passed away peacefully on October 8, 2026. She leaves behind a lifetime of love, treasured memories, and family and friends who will miss her dearly.

Barb grew up on the family farm and was a true daddy’s girl. Her roots ran deep, and her love of family and appreciation for life's simple joys remained important throughout her life.

In 1965, Barb met the love of her life, Dave Ward of Stoughton. It was love at first sight, and they knew they couldn’t wait another day to begin their life together. They married on June 11, 1966 (by the way, this was just days after Barb graduated from high school). What began as young love grew into a beautiful marriage that spanned 60 years. This past June, they celebrated that incredible milestone surrounded by family and wonderful friends, marking six decades of love, partnership, and shared memories.

Above all, Barb cherished her family. She was a devoted wife to Dave, a loving mother to Denise (Van) Hilleshiem, Dennis (Amy) Ward, Sheri (Jeff) Nelson, and Kelli Ward Armstrong, and a proud grandmother to Brit, Devan, Jensen, Jakob, Clay, Chase, Lexi, Ciera, Charlie, and Liam. She was also a loving great-grandmother to Gideon, Ezra, and James. Barb is also remembered by her surviving sisters, Carol Winrich, Shari Vakharia, Diane (Frank) Hawkins, and Patricia Zelm (John Emmart).

Barb’s greatest happiness often came from having everyone together under one roof. Holidays at the family home were especially dear to her. She loved filling the house with laughter and the people she loved most. These gatherings were among her greatest joys, and the memories made there will be treasured for generations to come.

For more than 20 years, Barb dedicated herself to caring for others. She worked as a nurse for many years and retired from St. Mary’s Care Center in Madison. Caring came naturally to her, and she continued to express her love through countless, thoughtful gestures long after her working years had ended.

One of Barb’s most special traditions was creating handmade birthday and Christmas cards. Each card was thoughtfully made with its recipient in mind; always adding a personal expression of love that made every single card one of a kind. Over time, she extended this kindness beyond her family and friends, making cards for children going through difficult times, too. She had a gift for reminding others that they were loved and never forgotten. Barb also had an incredible memory and was “sharp as a whistle” when it came to dates. Birthdays and special occasions rarely ever slipped past her, and the people she loved could count on her to remember the moments that mattered.

She and Dave shared a love of adventure, often taking their Honda Gold Wing out for Saturday rides with their church life group. They also enjoyed riding their tandem bicycle through the countryside, taking in the beauty of nature together.

In her quieter moments, Barb enjoyed making macramé plant hangings, crocheting scarves for family, and caring for her beloved plants. She had a green thumb when it came to her plants.

And whether she was at home with her plants, gardening, creating something by hand, or enjoying time outdoors with Dave, Barb found joy in the simple things.

Faith was an extremely important part of Barb’s life. She was a longtime member of City Church in Madison, where she formed many lasting friendships. Her faith brought her comfort and shaped the way she cared for others. Those who loved her find comfort in knowing she is now singing, dancing, and rejoicing with the Lord.

Barb leaves behind a family and many friends who will forever treasure her love, her thoughtfulness, her handmade cards, and the countless little ways she made people feel special. She showed that love does not always need grand gestures; often, it is found in remembering a birthday, creating something by hand, gathering loved ones around the table, or simply making sure someone knows they matter. Through these everyday acts of kindness, Barb left a lasting imprint on the hearts of those fortunate enough to know her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Lee and Eleanor South; her sister, Jane South; and her former daughter-in-law, Amy T. Ward.

A "Celebration of Life" service for Barb will be held on Saturday, November 7, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. at City Church, 4909 East Buckeye Road, Madison, Wisconsin 53716. Family and friends are invited to gather to honor her life, share memories, and celebrate the love she leaves behind.