Obituary of Emily A. Ward

Emily A. Ward, age 81, of Manhattan, IL, passed away at Silver Cross Hospital on Monday, June 8, 2026.  She was born on September 13, 1944, the daughter of Edward John and Iona Agnes (nee Taylor) Wallock. Emily was a graduate of Argo High School in Bridgeview, IL, Class of 1962.

 After a dedicated career as a secretary, she retired from Statesville Correctional Center. She found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She was an avid gardener who took great pride in her flowers and yard, loved spending time fishing, enjoyed getting lost in a good book, and could often be found working on puzzles. Her kind spirit, strong work ethic, and love for those around her will be deeply missed.

Emily is survived by her children, Edward, and Naudia (John) Wawzenek; daughter-in-law, Jennifer; grandchildren, Marie, Anita, Evan, and Luke; dear friend, Dawn Rousar.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Richard Edward Ward, and her sister, Anna L. Ostrowski.

Visitation for Emily A. Ward will be held on Saturday, June 13, 2026, at the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 3200 Black Rd., Joliet, IL, from 10:00 a.m. until her Funeral Service beginning at 11:00a.m.  As it was her request, cremation rites will be accorded following services.

For more information, please call 815-741-5500 or visit her Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com, where you can share a favorite memory or leave an online condolence