BY LOUIS C. WARD
LEESBURG – Family, loved ones, and friends gathered together and paid tribute to Ms. Shirley Mae Ward at her 85th birthday Saturday, July 6th, 2024 at Roger’s Park in Leesburg, Florida.
The large backdrop, a blanket with Ms. Ward’s photograph, the black, gold, and red colored chairs and tables adorned with impressive centerpieces, and balloons scattered on the floor all enhanced the evening’s setting, allowing for a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere.
“Everything was just beautiful”, said an elated Ms. Ward, who was born and raised in Leesburg, Florida and reared 5 children. She was so pleased with the large turnout of family, loved ones, Carver Heights’ residents, and her Macedonia Church of the Living God members.
The celebratory event, very well coordinated by Ms. Ward’s children, started with a fun activity called “Break the Ice”, where Ms. Ward’s son, David, asked nostalgic questions about certain events, items and people. If they were younger or older than Ms. Ward, who was born in 1938. One question asked was “Is the jukebox older or younger than Ms. Ward?” It was older; created in 1889. Another was: “Is the Golden Gate Bridge older or younger?” California’s Golden Gate Bridge was created in 1937.
Heartwarming tributes expressed brought back memories from individuals whose lives Ms. Ward, a very concerned, loving and kind person, has touched. Everyone agreed the lady “was a worker, a doer, not a talker.” Ms. Ward just had a certain way of showing concern and love for everyone she encountered, often uplifting the person’s day.
“Ms. Shirley Ward came into my life 70 years ago. I was 1 ½ years old,” revealed Dr. Shelia Smalley, Ms. Ward’s pastor at Macedonia Church of the Living God in Leesburg, Florida, where Ms. Ward has been a congregant since its inception in 1955. “Shirley has been a cheerleader in my life and has supported our church and served it well. I melt when she calls me Pastor.”
Ms. Ward’s oldest and only living sibling, Ms. Julia Smith, vividly told how the love between the two of them was unconditional. “Only God knows how much I love and appreciate my sister Shirley so much.”
Longtime friend Mae Chester talked about the memorable church road trips she and Ms. Ward use take together.
“My grandma had a great birthday. She was really happy and I felt that really mattered,” stated Keshawn Ward, one of Ms. Ward’s grandsons, who said he’s her favorite at her birthday.
Alexis Ward, Ms. Ward’s daughter, felt the “birthday party went well for me and my sisters and brother. I was impressed, knowing my Mom said we did very well with the decorations and the large turnout of people who attended.”
In a heartfelt expression, another daughter, Lakeysia, addressing her Mom, said, “I thank my Mom for raising me and my kids. I’m the woman I am today because of you.”
“Happy Birthday, Mom! I loved you,” Brad, the oldest son, said.
