Eddie Jo (Etta Joe) Coleman Ward, entered into her Heavenly home on July 19, 2025, at the age of 91, surrounded by her family. She was born in Chester, MS on July 1, 1934. She was the oldest daughter of 10 children. She was known to her family as “Nanny". To most others, she was fondly known as "Nanny Jo.”
She lived most of her life in Humphreys County until she married the love of her life, Bill Ward, on December 5, 1952. They were married for 68 years, until Bill's death on August 28, 2020. She was the oldest member of the Benton Methodist Church, where she faithfully served the Lord, singing in the choir, attending the Women's Club, and assisting anywhere needed.
She was employed by Southern Bag Corporation in Yazoo City as a sewing machine operator for 21 years. At the time of her retirement, she was commended by company officials for being at work on time every day, ready to give 100 percent to her job, and showing pictures of her grandchildren.
Taking care of her grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren brought her great joy. Her favorite hobby was being outside in her flower garden. Her love for gardening continued after she and Bill moved to the Butler House. She was so proud of her flower garden at the Butler House and spent countless hours working and being in God's garden. When she could no longer physically take care of the garden, her daughters took over for her. She still loved sitting out on the patio looking at God's beauty. Everyone who visited knew about "Nanny Jo’s Garden,” and many came for a quick look. Along with being a pro at gardening, she was a bright light of God’s love. Her nurturing spirit showed through the love she had for all people. Everyone who had any contact with her, fell in love with her.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 68 years, Bill Ward; her mother, Ollie Coleman; her father, Richard Coleman; brothers, Johnny, Richard (RV), George, Jerry; and sisters, Sarah and Annie.
Nanny leaves behind four daughters, Judy (Harold) Miller, Pam Golden, Diane (Reece) Vaughan, Lynn(Bill)Coleman;10 grandchildren, Trey Miller, Emily Halford, Kristy Robertson, Misty Lacey, Will Vaughan, Josh Vaughan, Brandan Coleman, Jeff Coleman, Blake Coleman, and Ward Coleman; 26 great grandchildren;three great-great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces and nephews.
Her family would like to express our gratitude to the staff of the Butler House and to the staff of Traditions Hospice Care for the love, compassion, respect, and kindness shown to our Mother. She loved each of you.
Honorary Pallbearers are her grandsons, Trey Miller, Will Vaughan, Josh Vaughan, Brandan Coleman, Jeff Coleman, Blake Coleman, Ward Coleman; and granddaughters, Kristy Robertson, Misty Lacey, and Emily Halford.
Visitation will be on Thursday, July 31, 2025, at 11 a.m. with a Celebration of Life at 12 p.m. at the Benton Methodist Church in Benton, MS. Burial will be in Glenwood Cemetery in Yazoo City, MS.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Benton Methodist Church, P. 0. Box 1, Benton, MS 39039.
