Mary L. Ward — O’Donnell-Cookson Life Celebration Home

Mary L. Ward, 80, of Barry, passed away at 4:03 am Thursday, January 9, 2025, at Hannibal Regional Hospital in Hannibal, MO.

Mary was born December 25, 1944, in Quincy, IL to Herbert and Dorothy (Wolfe) Shreacke. She was married to Edwin M. Ward on December 12, 1964 at St. Anthony’s Church in Quincy, IL. Their union was a beacon of love and partnership that lasted 58 years until Edwin’s passing on January 24, 2023.

A graduate of Payson High School in 1962, Mary’s nurturing spirit led her to a career as a Certified Nursing Assistant at Blessing Hospital, where she provided care and comfort to patients for over 25 years. Her retirement in 2005 did not mark the end of her service; she continued to support her community and family. Mary and her husband Ed played an important role in their son and daughter-in-law’s business, Hadley Creek Outfitters. Whether cleaning lodges, managing a lodge, or welcoming hunters into their home, Mary created a warm and friendly atmosphere that forged lifelong friendships.

Mary was an avid lover of the great outdoors, often found picking blackberries, mushroom hunting, or fishing. Her connection with nature was profound, as evidenced by her compassionate care for animals. Mary’s heart was so big that she raised a pet squirrel, rehabilitated two owls named Hoot and Toot, and cared for an abandoned baby raccoon she affectionately called Bandit. Her backyard was a sanctuary where deer were so tame they would venture close enough for her to almost touch them.

Survivors include her son, Stacey Ward (Michelle) of Barry, IL; one sister, Joyce Barker of Payson; nephew Jeff Barker (Dee Dee) of Barry; and numerous great nieces and nephews, great- great nieces and nephews, cousins, and her beloved cat, Possum.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; her mother and father in-law, Foster and Mildred Ward; brother in-law, Gordon Barker; nephew Greg Barker; great-niece, Lynn Barker; and numerous aunts and uncles.

Friends and Family are invited to Mary’s Life Celebration at a visitation that will be Monday, January 20, 2025, from 9:30 am to 11:00 am at O’Donnell-Cookson Life Celebration Home in Quincy, IL.
A Funeral Ceremony will directly proceed at 11:00 am with Pastor Marty Pressey officiating. Burial will follow at Greenmount Cemetery in Quincy, IL.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Pike County Animal Shelter.

Online condolences may be shared and video tribute may be viewed at www.ODonnellCookson.com.