Esther Patterson Ward, formerly of Norton
August 15, 1928 - November 14, 2023
Esther Patterson Ward, former Norton, Kansas resident passed away on November 14, 2023 at the age of 95 in Missouri. She was born August 15, 1928, in Stillwater, Oklahoma, the daughter of Herbert and Florence Patterson.
Esther graduated from Oklahoma State University and then moved to Norton, Kansas to teach high school English and Spanish.
She met her husband of 60 years, John "Jack" Ward in Norton, and married on September 26, 1949. Jack preceded her in death March 12, 2010.
After Jack’s passing, she moved to Missouri from Norton to be closer to family.
Esther enjoyed playing bridge, golfing, reading and flower gardening in her spare time. She served as the St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church organist for many years.
Survivors include her three sons, Stan of Panama City Beach, FL; Mark and wife Katy of Springfield, MO; Dave and wife Donna of Hays, KS; daughter Susan Austin and her husband Skip of Hollister, MO; as well as 12 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband and a grandson, Matthew Thomas Ward.
A private family graveside service will be held at a later date in the Norton City Cemetery.
Esther will be remembered and dearly missed by all who knew and loved her.
Memorial contributions in Esther’s memory may be made to the Norton Flower Fund (https://www.nortonccf.org/flower-fund) or in care of Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory – Brock’s Chapel, 2509 Vine, Hays, KS 67601. The work done by the Norton Flower Fund enhances the public appearance of Norton.
Memories and words of comfort may be shared with the family on Esther’s tribute page at www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com