Laura Ward

She was born in August of 1945 in Fairfax, Alabama (Valley). She graduated from Valley High School and went on to receive her bachelor's in English Education from Auburn University, her Masters Degree in English Education from Georgia State University, and her Specialist Degree in English Education from Troy State University. It was during her years at Auburn University that she met her soon to be husband Don. They were married December 22, 1968 and have been together for the past 54 years and have two children together. After graduation, she became an educator with the Muscogee County School District in Columbus, GA. Her first teaching position was at Jordan High School where she taught 12th grade English. In 1968 she became the first person to integrate Carver High School teaching staff. When she became pregnant with her first child in 1971 she had to give up her position. After her son’s birth she began teaching at Kendrick High School where she remained until her retirement in 2008. She primarily taught 12th grade English. For a short time she taught entry level college English at Rutledge State Prison when they had a collegiate program through Brewton Parker College.

In her spare time, she enjoyed baking and gardening. However, her true passion was the education of others and she sought out every available opportunity to do so. She was a member of St. Thomas Episcopal Church. She is survived by her husband, Don; her son, Donjoel, and his husband, Keith; her daughter, Audrian and her wife Cindi; her stepdaughter, Donna and her husband Philip; and her granddaughter, Leah and her husband Stevan;, and her legacy of all the lives she touched, especially Sylvia, Melody, and Xavier.

Laura will be cremated and the family has decided to make the service private for immediate family only; therefore, there will be no visitation or public service. Laura asked that in lieu of flowers, consider a donation in her name to the United Negro College Fund (UNCF).

If you knew Laura personally, the family has asked that you leave messages of how Laura impacted your life. If she was your teacher, please include the year that you graduated.