
Ward – Lillian Elizabeth “Marie”, age 83, of Middleton, Annapolis County, formerly of Milton, Queens County, passed away on Saturday, March 20th, 2021, at Orchard Villa, in Middleton, N.S..
Born in Lunenburg, Marie was the daughter of the late Wilbert and Lillian (Snow) Risser.
Marie worked for many years as a personal care worker at Queens Manor and later provided private care to individuals in their own homes. She had a strong faith in God and served as an officer in the Salvation Army, taught Sunday school, and enjoyed singing in the church choir. Marie was actively involved in her community, having served on the local school advisory committee, canvassed for the Canadian Cancer and MS Societies, and volunteered with Mothers Against Drunk Driving. She received an award of merit for her contributions to the Nova Scotia Commission on Drug Dependency.
Marie had many interests; she loved to travel, sing, dance, write poetry, read, sew, and perform with the local theatre group, The Winds of Change. She was a huge fan of country and bluegrass music and spent many weekends volunteering with the Hank Snow Society and attending bluegrass festivals with her dear husband and close friends. Her ‘free’ time was dedicated to her marathon shopping trips with her life-long friend, Judy.
Marie is survived by her loving husband, Gerald; daughters, Karen Ward-Cox (John Cox) of Cole Harbour, Kim Ward of Berwick, Kendra (Jeff) Hall of Conquerall Bank, Kara (John) Colbourne of Middleton; grandchildren, Samantha, Taylor, Jaimee, Jarred, Keegan, Kason, Tyler, Tony; brother, Laverne (Shirley) Risser; fur baby, Stewie, the cat. Marie was considered to be ‘Mom’ or ‘Nanny’ to many who knew her. She was a loving and caring woman who will be missed dearly.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, March 25th, 2021, from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m., and a funeral service will be held on Friday, March 26th, 2021 at 2:00 p.m., both at Chandlers’ Funeral Chapel, Liverpool. Captains Wayne and Betty Anne Pike, of the Salvation Army, will be officiating. Burial will be in the Milton Community Cemetery, Milton. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society. To share memories and condolences, please visit www.chandlersfuneral.com. Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, those attending must bring a mask, provide contact tracing information, hand sanitize, and practice social distancing. Webcasting of Marie’s service will begin at 2:00 p.m.To view, click on the link https://distantlink.com/Chandlers.html
Offer Condolence for the family of Ward; Lillian Elizabeth “Marie”

David whynott of mersey point
To Gerald and family we send our condolences at this sad time for your loss.Bless you all.
Cathy and Randy Conrad
To Marie’s family Marie always had a smile and was a very pleasant person. When I saw her she always wanted to catch up on how everyone was doing. She will be missed.
Peggyand Richard Hatt
Dear Gerald and girls, I am so sorry to read that Marie has passed. She was a wonderful person who always had a smile and ready for a good chat whenever our paths crossed. Keep your wonderful memories close to your heart. Take care of each other
Sincerely Peggy and Richard Hatt
Faye V Levy
Gerald, Karen, Kim, Kendra, Kara and Families,
Please accept my Deepest Sympathy on Marie’s passing. Marie and Gerald and you girls were extended family to all of our family. Marie was a dear friend to Mom and sat with her when she was very ill, always there to help. Your Mom and Dad visited with my Mom and Dad on a regular basis as well as keeping in touch by phone…I am eternally grateful for their friendship… Since Marie and Gerald moved to the valley we were keeping in touch on a regular basis via FaceTime and Video Chat…Hold on to all your wonderful memories as they will help get you through this difficult time….She will always be in my heart…Love, Faye
Gary & Heather Crossland
Gerald & Family,
Our Sincere Sympathy Love and Prayers to all of you at this very sad time. Marie will truly be missed and was always a positive person and put all her trust and faith in the Lord no matter the circumstances. May you Rest In Peace our sweet Marie.
Gary and Heather Crossland
Mahone Bay. Nova Scotia.
Tracy Crawford
Gerald, Karen,Kim,Kendra, Kara and families,
Sending my love to you all, Marie was always such a sweet and loving woman, welcoming me and my kids in her life like we were hers. She will always have a special place in my heart
Love from us
Tracy, Tim and Kristina
Jeanette Toplis
Dear Gerald, girls and families. We want to extend our deepest sympathy in the passing of Marie. She was a beautiful lady and always had a smile on her face. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad time. Sincerely Jeanette, Joanne and Kevin Toplis.
Brian Purdy
It is with great sadness that we pass along our sincere condolences, to all of Marie’s Family. Marie and Gerald and their children were the best of our next door neighbors, sharing many a good times together. Marie will be sadly missed by all who knew her for her honesty and kindness to all.
Brian, and Bev.
Conway
Karen & families
Our sincere condolences to all of you Marie was a sweet lady. Xo
Pauline & Elsie
Vivian Croft (Whynot)
Gerald and families:
I am so sorry for your loss. Marie was a very kind lady and hold her memory close to your hearts.
Gerald take care of yourself…..we are only a phone call away if you need us.
Russell and Gailyn Risser
We would like to send our condolences to Marie’s family. We always enjoyed our visits from Marie & Gerald, though they were few in numbers but we will cherish her memories, as she was a lovely lady. God bless all of you and hold her precious memories in your hearts forever. Love from Cousin Russell, Maddie and Gailyn.
Tim McDonald
How very, very sad to see that Marie has passed away. She was always so kind, pleasant and friendly and I have fond memories of her at the Liverpool Salvation Army when I was young. Over the years, when she and Gerald came into the shop where I worked in Liverpool, we would always have a conversation to “catch up” on our lives. To Gerald and the family, I am sending a big hug to all of you at this very sad time.
Lynn Kempton-Lowe
Dear Gerald and girls,
I am so sorry to read that Marie has passed away! Your hearts must be broken right now – you’ve lost a treasure!
I have no doubt that Marie is healthy and happy to be with the Lord that she worshipped for so many years and she will be there waiting for you to join her when that time comes. Marie wanted nothing more than to see all of her family give their hearts and lives over to the Saviour that she knew so well.
Marie was beautiful both inside and out. Her beautiful voice touched many people’s hearts, especially when she sang about her Lord. Marie loved to share her faith with others, but she never did it in a way that made others feel uncomfortable. Instead, they left feeling uplifted and fortunate to have a friend who loved and cared about them as deeply as she did.
Marie was the kind of person who welcomed people into her home, and if she was in the middle of a meal, then you could plan on a good cup of tea and an extra place being set at her table. She had such a great sense of humour and was so kindhearted that you always left with a smile on your face and a thankful heart. It was a blessing to have her as a friend.
Gerald and girls, hold every precious memory close to your hearts and know that Marie wouldn’t want you to mourn your loss for the rest of your days, but instead she would want you to remember her with love, and continue that legacy of love as you move forward. Share stories with one another and don’t be afraid to laugh together once again. But, most of all, thank God that you were blessed with such a wonderful wife and mother!
Love and Prayers,
Lynn and family xoxo
Murielle and Bernie LeBlanc
Dear Gerald and Family
Our deepest condolences and we are sending big hugs and prayers your way.!
We were so very lucky to have you Gerald and Marie as very dear friends and will never be forgotten.
Charlene Whynot - Reece
Karen and family
Sorry for you loss condolences to all your family
David and Bonnie Hatt
Gerald and family,Our deepest condolences .You are in our thoughts and prayers.A special lady with a beautiful smile.
Darren Horton
Gerald and the entire family my sincere condolences to all of you.
Gertrude Waters
Gerald and Family, so sorry for your loss.
Ashley Mckinnon
Gerald and family, so sorry for the loss of a wonderful woman, it was great pleasure of being on the side of her growing up for 34 yrs, and she got to see my children,I will hold memories forever and you guys as well,remember are here for you all
Corina & Willis Huphman
To Gerald and family…so sorry for your loss of your wife, mother, sister, grandmother and friend …cherish her memories and they will get you through the days and weeks ahead…she is free from pain walking the streets of gold above…GOD BLESS
Tracey and Craig Oickle
Dear Gerald, Karen, Kim, Kendra, Kara and families, Our deepest condolences to you all during this difficult time. Marie was a very kind and caring person and she will truly be missed. Wishing you all strength and peace during this hard and sad time.
Dale and Richard mckinnon
Gerald and family, Marie was a sweet lady and a wonderful neighbor next door,I will miss her calling for “Stewie” out in the yard,treasure the memories forever now in your guys hearts we are here for you all
Ashley Mckinnon
Gerald and family,growing up next to Marie was a wonderful thing ever happened in 34 years of living next to you guys,I am so glad that she got to meet all 4 of my kids and was told to her auntie,I will always hold my memories of her in my heart especially my brother calling for Gerald in the snowstorm just like Marie would we are here for you all at this sad time
Vina Moses
So saddened to hear of dear Marie’s death. Whàt a loving and special lady. Condolences to her dear husband and her family and many friends. I will miss her at Hank Snow events and country shows.
Gordon Eisnor
Gerald and family: Sincere condolences to you and all your family.
MAURICE/BETTY WHYNOTT
Gerald and girls, so sorry to hear of Marie’s passing. She will be greatly missed but she is with the Lord she loved so much. Our prayers and thoughts are with you .
Amanda Dalby
I was so sorry to read about Marie’a passing. I met Marie (and Gerald) when I worked as a summer student at the Hank Snow Home Town Museum in 2007. I worked there several other summers and continued volunteering and would see Marie at many events, often working together for some shifts at the tribute. She always had the brightest smile and wouldn’t hesitate to give me a hug, ask about university, and then my teaching career. Due to covid the tribute didn’t happen in 2020, and I know her presence will be missed when we are able to hold the event again. Sending love to Gerald.
Lorraine Dalby
I had the pleasure of working with Marie at the Hank Snow tribute many times
What a beautiful person
So sorry for your loss
Chuck McLellan
To the family of the late Marie Ward:
Please accept our sincerest condolences. Our thoughts are with you during this time of loss.
Sincerely,
Chuck and Linda McLellan
Shirley Neal
Shirley & Gordon Neal
We would like to express our sincere sympathy to Gerald and family.
Marie was a sincere person and loved by all. She was a very caring person and most of all she was like a sister to me. She spent a lot of time with our family when we were growing up. When our mom and dad had gotten older and were not well, she would stay with them and help care for them. Both she and Gerald would help out in whatever way they could. She would bring a smile on there faces
whenever she arrived.
After we got married and they moved to Jordan Falls we spent a
lot of time together. Marie was always there for me. We had many laughs together.
In later years after they moved to the Valley to be near their children we would Video Chat or call and get all caught up on what was happening in our lives.
“Rest in peace myfriend”
John & Nancy Leefe
Gerald and Family, Nancy and I are very sorry to learn of Marie’s passing. She was a gentle, thoughtful person who brought happiness to many.
Joan and Bruce Hawkin
We are so happy that we met Marie through Kara. She was a wonderful lady and always a happy, positive, uplifting person. We loved her.
Our sincere condolences to dear Gerald, the girls and their families. ❤️
Jim & Jacqueline Peach
Gerald & families so sorry to hear this news. Our deepest condolences to you alll. May God give you each the comfort you need to get through this valley.
Kathy Basdeo
Gerald and Girls, I send my sincere condolences to you all.
from Prince Rupert BC
Kathy Gallant
Susan M MacLeod
Gerald and family
I am saddened to hear of Marie’s passing. She was a fabulous person and one of the most friendly I have experienced. I recall her volunteer time with Able Cable where she produced and presented a children’s program called “Fun With Fours”. We enjoyed working together in that capacity
She will be sadly missed. My sincere condolences
Susan MacLeod
April Whynot
Kara, Kendra, Kim, Karen and Gerald,
So sorry to hear of Marie’s passing. Wishing you comfort at this difficult time.
April Whynot
Diane Raynard White
Sending sincere condolences to Gerald and family , so very sorry for your loss. Thinking of you all
Diane and Donald White
And the family of Tom Raynard
Mervin Bernadette Hartlen
Gerald and Family, so saddened to hear of Marie’s passing, such a lovely lady. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Dianne Wolfe - Wamboldt
Gerald & family
Thinking of you all at this sad time. Whenever we met, Marie was always ready for a chat and a smile. She loved to laugh. Hold her memories close, and may each of you be the strength each other needs, especially for your father right now.
Take care…..
Richard and JUDY
Richard and Judy Morrison
Gerald and family we send our deepest condolences during this difficult time Marie was wonderful person and a true friend and she will be missed by all who knew her you are in our thoughts and prayers
Linda Lucier
Richard and family. I’m very saddened to hear of Marie’s passing. . I’m sure she will be missed so very much. I can still hear her singing “Climb Every Mountain” in the Sound Of Music. She about brought the house down. She’s singing with the angels now. Sincerely .. Linda.
Madonna Rowlands (John's mom)
Gerald and Family
So sorry to hear about the passing of Marie. Please take comfort in each during this sad time.
Linda and Robert Wheatley
Kara and family
Our condolence to you and your family. So sorry to hear about your mothers passing. During sad times families pull together and comfort each other.
Madonna Rowlands (John's mom)
Gerald and Family
So sorry to hear about the passing of Marie. Please take comfort in each during this sad time.
Linda and Robert Wheatley
Kara and family
Our deepest condolences to you and your family. We were saddened to hear about the passing of your mom.
Norma
I offer my sympathy for your mothers death. You will miss her. If I can do anything for you just let me know.
Norma
Valerie & Roger Wilcox
Gerald & family,
We were so sorry to read that Marie had passed.Fond memories are recalled at Zion United and the Sunday School years! It now seems so long ago! Marie was always so pleasant! Thinking of you all at this difficult time. Please accept our sincere sympathy.
Willard and Peggy Woodworth
Gerald and family,
We are very sorry to hear about Marie.
Thinking of you at this sad time.
Deborah Wolfe
Gerald and family,
I am sorry to hear about Marie passing. I will miss our little chats on face time. Marie was a very warm women and try to help everyone. I will miss Marie alot.
Shirley Neals
RIP dear lady..you were a joy to work with at Queens Manor and a dear soul to know! God bless your family during this time of sorrow.
Bob fralic
Gerald, sending my condolences to you and your family.
Melody Robinson
Kara, Gerald and family,
My heart breaks for you all. Marie was such a kind and caring lady with a heart full of love. Know you are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Love you xoxo
Melody and Wayne Robinson
Wannetta Cernaz (Whynot)
My heart felt condolences to family and friends.
Cathy Parnell
I would like to send my sincere condolences to her husband and all her daughters and their families.
Myra Colbourne
“They whom we love and lose are no longer where they were before. They are now wherever we are.” Take comfort by sharing stories and reminisce about the beautiful memories you all shared together, you will both laugh and cry, but it helps to ease the pain. I feel fortunate to have known such a beautiful lady.
ELLEN
Gerald and family We are so sorry to hear of Maries passing..We go back a few years.She will be missed for her testimoney. .Praying for the family at this time.é
Lynn Wamboldt
My condolences to Mrs.Ward’s family. Kendra, I always enjoyed going to your house as a child and hearing your mother singing in the kitchen. Hugs to all.
Pamela Oliver
To the Ward family,
As you honour and remember your loved one today – take comfort in knowing you have the support and love of God and a caring community and friends. Take care.
Pamela Oliver, Milton
Christian Oliver, Herring Cove
Paula Colbourne
Kara, Gerald and family,
So sorry to hear your loss. Marie was a beautiful lady, inside and out. You all are in my thoughts at this difficult time. God Bless
The Rideout family,Gloria, Liz and David
Sorry for your loss ,Marie a gentle soul from time she was born I think It was a joy to see the love between Marie and Gearld, she will be truly missed.
Clark and Sandra Hebb
To Gerald and Family , so sorry for your loss, please accept our sincere condolences.. Always enjoyed our conversations about the weather and the Hank Snow event that was coming up . Think about all your happy times and may they help ease the pain of your loss.
Donna Sabean
Kara, I am so sorry to hear of your Mum’s passing. My sincere condolences to you, your Dad and family’
Debbie Burgess
Kara and family .You have my condolence in the sad passing of your Mom enjoy and share your memories
God Bless Debbie.
.
Terry & Stephanie Hurrell
Dear Gerald and family:
Our memories of Marie go back to the mid 1970’s when we were involved with Winds of Change in Liverpool. I was music director when Marie gave an extremely fine performance of the Mother Abbess in “The Sound of Music.” Her memorable singing of “Climb Every Mountain” thrilled everyone who heard it. She and some of the girls were involved in other musicals such as “Fiddler on the Roof”, “Guys & Dolls” “Once Upon a Mattress”. Wonderful memories! God bless you all. Terry & Stephanie Hurrell.
Beverly and Mike Llewellyn
Gerald…please accept our condolences. You are in our thoughts and prayers in these difficult times.
Dick Cole
SORRY TO HEAR OF MARIES PASSING. KEEP THE FAITH…DICK C.
Cathy Truelove
Dear Gerald and Family
Our deepest Condolences. Marie was truly an earth Angel. She will be dearly missed by so many. I will miss her evening messages and bright loving smile and how she always had time to chat and bring light to others. Heaven has become brighter and her love will live on inside of all of you forever. Much love and Prayers. Cathy Truelove and Dale Sewers
and Cynthia and Larry Truelove xoxo
Sally Fader
Dear Gerald & family:
So sorry to hear about Marie. We were in school together and I always enjoyed her friendship. I hadn’t seen her for many years, but thought of her often. Sending my sincere condolences at this very sad and difficult time.
Terry Deter
Gerald and family,
Very sorry for your loss. My deepest condolences.
Terry Dexter
Gerald and family,
Very sorry for your loss. My deepest condolences.
Cindy&Theodore Hanley
Gerald and family
Very sorry to have learned that Marie had passed.. she was a wonderful lady.
Always ready for a good chat.please know that you are all in our thoughts and prayers.Hold on to your memories.
Brad MacLeod
Karen / Kim / Kendra and Kara,
So sorry to hear of the passing of your mom. She was a truly warm and gentle woman. My thoughts and prayers will be with you as you mourn the loss of this sweet lady.