Wanda Faye Mitchell Ward of Sheridan, Arkansas was born October 5, 1945 in Sicily Island, Louisiana, the daughter of the late Thomas and Doris Snyder Mitchell. She was an active member of New Hope #1 Missionary Baptist Church in Rolla, where she taught Sunday School, Vacation Bible School and was the church treasurer. She enjoyed decorating the church, cross-stitching, crafting, going to yard sales and flea markets and loving on her grandchildren.

Mrs. Ward died March 8, 2023 at Baptist Medical Center in Little Rock at the age of 77.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her son, Billy Joe Florence; sisters, Mary Bryant, Jean Vines; and brother, James Wesley Mitchell.

Survivors: husband and best friend of 32 years, James Steven Ward of Sheridan; brothers, Bobby Mitchell of Hazelhurst, MS, Raymond Mitchell (Marsha) of Vidalia, LA, Dean Mitchell (Debbie) of Sheridan; sisters, Fern Beard of Ferriday, LA, Diane Mitchell of Sheridan; 4 grandchildren, Anthony Florence, David Florence (Haley), Blake Finley, Tristen Ward; great grandchild, Aubrey Rose Florence.  She is also survived by a host of nieces, nephew, cousins and many friends.

Funeral service will be 10:00 AM Tuesday, March 14, 2023 at Memorial Gardens Funeral Home with Bro. Michael Walton and Bro. Alex Skinner officiating with visitation prior to the service from 9:00. Burial will follow at Bethel South Cemetery near Sheridan.

Pallbearers are Chyanne Mitchell, Blake Finley, Anthony Florence, David Florence, Jacob Wright, Earnie McElroy, Buddy McElroy and James "Buddy" Medlin.