Ilene Ward

CHURCH HILL – Ilene Gilbert Ward, 84, passed away Monday, (December 7, 2015) at Holston Valley Medical Center following a brief illness.Mrs. Ward was a lifelong resident of Hawkins County and was a dedicated member of McFerrin United Methodist Church, where she served as pianist and Church Historian for several years, and always enjoyed the Apple Butter stirring.She is preceded in death by her husband, Grady Ward who was the love of her life, her parents Clay and Neatis Long Gilbert, one brother, Thurman Gilbert.She is survived by one daughter, Shelia Smith, Church Hill; one son, Duane Ward and wife, Tammy, Jonesborough; one grandson, Christopher Brian and Amber Smith; one great grandson, Hayden Christopher Smith; several nieces, nephews and cousins; special friend, Pastor Regina Shelton.Calling hours are from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday at Johnson-Arrowood Funeral Home and anytime at the residence.Services will be conducted Wednesday at 7:00 p.m. in the funeral home chapel with Rev. Cindy Muncie officiating.Graveside services will be conducted Thursday at 11:00 a.m. at McPheeters Bend Cemetery.Pallbearers will be family and friends.The family request those desiring may make memorial contributions to McFerrin United Methodist Church.To leave an online message for the Ward family, please visit us @ www.jfhonline.com.Johnson- Arrowood Funeral Home is serving the Ward family.