January 28, 1953 – May 16, 2022
Stephen Jay Ward, 69, of Independence passed away Monday, May 16th, 2022 surrounded by his family.
Stephen was born on January 28, 1953 in Mexico, Missouri. He was one of eight children of George William and Doris (Clevenger) Ward. He was proceeded in death by his parents, brother Frederick Ronald Ward and sister Paula Dunkin. He is survived by his wife, Dena Ward, daughter Stephenie Villanueva and husband Joe, son Tim Ward, daughter Lori Smart and husband Jason, son Billy Clark, ten grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, brothers Chris Ward and Billy Ward, sisters Pam Barry, Kathy Ward, Tonie Hedrick (Max), several nieces, nephews and countless family and friends. Stephen loved his family and spending time with them. He was the true definition of dad and grandpa. He was a 1972 graduate of Ruskin High School and attended the University of St Mary. Stephen worked for the Independence School District at Procter Elementary School for 32 years, where he touched the lives of many students and families. Upon retirement, he founded Sunrise Montessori Academy with his daughter, Lori. He was very dedicated to supporting education in a variety of capacities, including teaching, where he certainly impacted the lives of many.
Family and friends are invited to Stephen’s celebration of life on Sunday, May 22nd from 1:00 pm to 3:30 pm at Procter Elementary School located at 1403 W Linden, Independence, MO 64052. 1:00 pm to 1:45 pm, mingle, 1:45 pm to 2:45 pm ceremony, 2:45 pm to 3:30 pm mingle. This is a casual attire. There will be an opportunity to share your sweet memories either with family before and after the ceremony or during the service. In lieu of flowers, there is a scholarship fund that is being set up in Stephen’s name at Sunrise Montessori Academy. You may venmo your donation to Amanda Bradford@Amanda_-29.
Arrangements: Royer’s New Salem Funeral Home Independence, MO 816-796-8600