Ida Mae Ard

Ida Mae Martin Ard was born on August 11, 1934 unto the union of Willie Sr. and Jennie Martin in Crenshaw, Mississippi. She was the second child of 8 sons and daughters. Ida Mae married Calvin Ard on November 17, 1950 and relocated to Evansville, Indiana. This union was blessed with six children: Robert “Jimmy” (Debra), Calvin, Sylvester “Britchi” (Faye), Darlene, Doreen, and Ricky. She will be lovingly remembered as “MawMaw” to her seven grandchildren: Demetria, Sylvester Jr., Shannon, Marco, Detrick, Stuart, and Trey (Myrisa) and twelve great-grandchildren. She also leaves cherished memories with her siblings: Tommie Lee, Marsa (Carolyn), Maurice, sister-in-law Yong Sun, as well as a multitude of nieces, nephews, extended family, friends, and church members. Ida Mae departed this life on December 27, 2023. She is preceded in death by her husband, two sons: Calvin and Ricky, and four siblings: Alice, Shirley, Willie Jr. "Witt", and Curtis. Ida Mae showed her love to others by being caring and nurturing. She was always willing to help those who were in need. For years, she hosted Sunday dinners almost every week where her family feasted on home cooked meals with favorites such as fried chicken, greens, and macaroni and cheese. She was famously known throughout the neighborhood for her sweet potato pies and caramel cakes. She would love to go shopping at Sears, DeJongs, and JC Penney. She had a loving heart and a smile for everyone. Ida Mae’s greatest gift, though, was in her discipleship and devotion to her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. She was a member of Line Street Church of Christ for over 70 years. Everyone will miss her presence in their lives but rejoice knowing she is in peace and resting as the good and faithful servant she was. The Ard Family would like to thank the wonderful and caring staffs at DaVita East Dialysis, Linda E. White Hospice House, and Alexander East Funeral Home. Your professionalism and ethics are unmatched. We are extremely happy with the care and love you shown Ida Mae and her loved ones during this time. In addition, as it cannot go unacknowledged: To Doreen and Darlene: We want to express how much we appreciate all of the help you gave your Mom while she was ill. She would never have made it without your care, love, and support. You took on the role as caregivers during a time that was very trying. You came together and cared for her all while continuing to lead your own personal lives. The role of caregiver is not easy, especially when you are caring for someone who is so near and dear to you. Be encouraged and proud of the work that you did. THANK YOU. A Homegoing Celebration will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, January 5, 2023 at Line Street Church of Christ facilitated by Brother Geno Merriweather with final resting place to follow at Sunset Cemetery. Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die." John 11:25-26 The Services will be live streamed at www.facebook.com/funeralstreamUSA Condolences may be offered at www.AlexanderEastChapel.com.