Mary Jane Diggs Ward, 92, passed away on Saturday, Feb. 10, 2018.

Born in Mathews County in March 1925, she was predeceased by her husband of 57 years, Howard Thompson (Tom) Ward; her parents, George W. and Lela B. Diggs; her brother and his wife, William E. and Betty Diggs and her sister, Beatrice C. Diggs.

She is survived by her son and his wife, George and Mary Ellen Ward, and her daughters, Beatrice Wilkinson and Susan Moncrief; along with five grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.

Married in 1947 and retired from the Navy in 1959, Tom and Mary Jane lived in many locations from California to Massachusetts. Enjoying civilian life in Northern Virginia for 20 years and seven more in Williamsburg, Mary Jane was a loving wife, mother, and part-time dental receptionist. Her family and church always came first. She and Tom moved to Roanoke to be near grandkids in 1987. 

Memorial contributions may be made to Cave Spring Baptist Church Benevolent Fund, 4873 Brambleton Ave, Roanoke, Va. 24018.