Margaret Jean Ward

Margaret Jean Ward passed away surrounded by her family on September 25, 2024. She was a beloved wife, mom, Mimi, and friend. Margaret will be remembered for her kindness, grace, faith, and unwavering love for her family and friends. Her legacy will live on through all those who had the privilege of knowing her. 

 Margaret was born February 22, 1959, to John E. Brawand, Sr. and Doris M. Brawand in Louisville, Kentucky. She married Bruce E. Ward, Jr. on July 24, 1980, in Louisville, Kentucky. During the early years of their marriage Margaret made a home for her family wherever the military sent them. Finally settling in Rosepine, Louisiana in 1993.

 Margaret loved to read, write, draw, read scripture, and spending time with family and friends. Her favorite person to spend time with was her granddaughter, Aurora. She was a shopaholic from the time she had her own money to spend. 

 Margaret worked as a Paraprofessional at Rosepine Elementary School for 22 years until her retirement in 2023. Her duties include organizing the Rosepine Christmas parade until she had to pass the ornament due to illness in 2019. 

 Margaret was an active Rosepine Purple Pride Band Booster member for 5 years. Every band member became another one of her “kids” and she was fondly called Marmie by most of them. She never missed a home game - always working the visitor's concession stand. She also reorganized the Miss Rosepine Pageant to where it became a profitable fundraiser for the band. She volunteered to work the Band Booster Bingo to help fund the multiple band trips for her daughter.

 During her time as the mayor’s wife, she started the Rosepine Elementary Christmas ornament contest for the Town Hall Christmas Tree. This tradition is still active today. She also organized fundraisers to help purchase the "Welcome to Rosepine" banners. She was a gracious hostess with guests that included former governor Bobby Jindal at their home. 

 Margaret was a devoted member to Shiloh Privimated Baptist Church in Rosepine. She served as Secretary/Clerk for over 10 years. She reluctantly gave up the position due to her illness. 

 Those left to cherish her memory include her husband of over 40 years, Bruce E. Ward, Jr.. Her daughter Kirsti J. Ward and Christopher F. Simmons. Grandchildren, Gabriel F. Simmons and Aurora J. Simmons all of Rosepine. Siblings: Mary Doble (Tony), Dawn "Ann" Brawand, Terri May (Trauge), Joan Al-Diwan (Bashar), Roger Brawand (Nancy), Robert Brawand (Leslie), Eric Brawand (Kallie), Tod Brawand, Brother in laws Tommy and Jimmy as well several nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

 Those waiting to welcome her Home include her father, John E. Brawand, Sr., mother, Doris M. Brawand, Sisters, Doris "Dot" Broughton and Branda Spann, Brother, John "Johnny" Brawand Jr. and Sister In Law, Marsha, Nephew Fuzzy and Great Niece Emily.

 Visitation will be at Myers Colonial Funeral Home on Wednesday, October 2, 2024, from 5pm to 8 pm. with continued visitation Thursday, October 3, 2024, at 10 until the start of service at 11am. The funeral service will be held in the Chapel at Myers Colonial Funeral Home. Burial will follow the service at Rosepine Cemetery. 

 In lieu of flowers, please feel free to donate to DeRidder Junior Woman's Club or Rosepine Elementary in her name. 

 The family would like to say thank you to all those who selflessly loved Margaret and helped during her illness.