Debbie Ward Gaines

She was born on May 2, 1960 to Jerry and Mona Ward in Jackson, TN. She graduated from Jackson Central-Merry High School. She attended the University of Tennessee and graduated from Lambuth College where she played on the Lambuth Tennis Team. She worked with the State of Tennessee Treasury Department for four years.

She then returned to Jackson and raised her two children, Ben Gaines, III and Bailey Gaines who survive her. She is also survived by her parents, Jerry and Mona Ward; her brothers, Jerry Ward, Jr. (Debbie) and John Ward (Gail); special aunts and uncles, Jimmy Ward (Elaine) and Roger Murray, Jr. (Judy); and several nieces and nephews.

She always enjoyed tennis, golf, horseback riding, and most anything outdoors.

A special thanks goes to Dr. Kippy Miller; Hospice of West Tennessee staff; special caregivers, Vivian and Vanessa Pearson; and to all the many friends that continued to show love and support.

The family will receive friends on Monday, November 3, 2014 at the North Chapel of George A. Smith and Sons Funeral Home beginning at 11 a.m.

The funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. in the North Chapel of George A. Smith and Sons Funeral Home with Rev. Dan Camp officiating. Interment will follow in Hollywood Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested the memorials in Debbie’s memory be directed to Hospice of West Tennessee, First United Methodist Church, or to the charity of the donor’s choice.