Melissa “Missy” Jean Ward, 38, of Mansfield, went home to be with the Lord on Thursday, October 29, 2009 at OSU Medical Center surrounded by her family who supported her throughout her life long illnesses. Born November 24, 1970 in Mansfield, she was the daughter of Larry and Paula (Sammons) Ward. Melissa graduated from Crestline High School in 1989 and obtained her STNA from Pioneer Career and Technology Center. She was a member of the Church of God in Shelby. Writing poetry and drawing were two of Melissa’s favorite past times. She also enjoyed playing with her Barbie Doll collection with her nieces. Melissa was a beloved daughter, granddaughter, sister, and aunt who will be greatly missed.

She is survived by her parents, Larry and Paula Ward; her companion of 20 years, Scott Weisman of Mansfield; sisters and brother-in-law, Amy and Steve Ackerman of Shelby, and Holly Barler of Lexington; brother, Jeff Ward of Marion; nieces, Courtney Batdorf of Shelby, Kennedy Barler of Lexington, Haley Weisman of Lexington, Rachel Ackerman, Peggy Ackerman, Shelbi Ackerman, and Emily Ackerman, all of Shelby, and Cara Ward and Jerica Ward of Crestline; nephews, Devin Batdorf an Dylan Batdorf, both of Shelby, and Derek Ward of Crestline; grandmother, Imogene Sammons of Mansfield; special aunts, Sherry McKenzie, Alma Cline, and Hazel Sammons, all of Mansfield; and numerous cousins. She was preceded in death by her grandfather, Paul Sammons; grandfather, Forest Ward; and grandmother, Helen Ward.

Friends may call from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, November 2, 2009 at the Diamond Street Home of Wappner Funeral Directors, 98 S. Diamond St., Mansfield. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at Shelby Church of God on London West Rd., Shelby conducted by Pastor Rick Lewis and Rev. Steve Ackerman. Burial will follow in Mansfield Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made in care of the family. For online guest registry, click on above logo.