Obituary of Patricia Ann Ward
Patricia Ann Lavender was born on December 10, 1954, in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. She was born from the union of Walter S. Finley and Myra Jean (Lavender) Small. She moved with her family in October of 1958 to Monroe, Michigan where she attended Lincoln Elementary and Monroe High Schools.
Patricia was a nurturing presence in the lives of many. Not only did she raise her own children, but she played an integral role in the lives of her grandchildren and many of the youth in her neighborhood and community, lovingly obtaining the name "Momma Pat". She understood the value of being a stay-at-home mom not only to provide love and support to her children, but to teach compassion and patience. To provide for her family, she worked as a cook at Boysville, cleaned local banks and business offices, and for many years provided homecare to those in need.
Patricia was affectionately known as “Puffa Red" for her passion and spirited demeanor. She loved to sing and dance to her favorite songs and was always the life of the party. Her high-pitched voice and laughter were unique and could be heard everywhere she went. Patricia always made strangers feel like family.
Throughout life, Patricia’s faith sustained her. As a member of Second Missionary Baptist Church, her experiences there enriched her spiritual journey. Her love of music and dance shone through her participation in the junior choir. Her positive presence and genuine happiness were truly a blessing to those that knew her. Family, especially her grandchildren and friends were her life. Amongst her longtime pals, whom she referred to as her sisters, were Jan Chappelle, Vicki “Ray” Madison, Sheree Evans, Claudette "Pookie" Hoskins, Jennifer Harris, and sister Dora.
Patricia Ann Ward, age 69, of Monroe, passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of her family at 10:14am on Tuesday; January 9, 2024, at ProMedica Monroe Regional Hospital. Her passing was preceded by her father: Walter S. Finley; stepfather: Frank Small Sr.; stepmother: Ann Finley; sister: Diane Stewart; grandmother: Hattie Hobson; and life partner: Greg McKenzie.
To cherish her memory, she leaves four children: Aaron Lavender of Monroe, Antwon (Dee) Ward of Monroe, Nikole Ward of Monroe, and Shannon Terrell Ward of Lansing; her mother: Myra Jean Small of Monroe; seven siblings: Gwendolyn (Larry) Goodman, Phyllis D. (Rodney) Knox, Deborah Brunt, Jacqueline (Mark) Spicer Sr., Cathy (Teddy) Lavender, Frank (Jennifer Morris) Small Jr., and Vedette Small; seven grandchildren: Chantel Robbins, Jacala Ward, Aaron Jerome "A.J." Lavender Jr., Jacara (Brandon) London, Jacques Ward, Antwon Ward II, and Vanessa C. Lavender; five great grandchildren: Keion Carr, Aaron London, Jaliyona Mosley, Landon Shearls, and Amani Prince Ward. Patricia was also instrumental in raising the four children of her significant others, and truly considered them her own: Tony, Mitch, Tomeka, and Keisha. These bonus children further blessed her with a host of additional grandchildren.
Friends may gather from 12:00pm until 1:00pm on Saturday; January 20, 2024, at Merkle Funeral Service, South Monroe; 14567 South Dixie Highway, Monroe, Michigan 48161 (734) 241-7070. A Homegoing Celebration of Her Life will take place at 1:00pm with Reverend Manuel “Lito” Mendez officiating. Cremation will follow at the on-site crematory, Covenant Cremation of Erie, Michigan.
Memorials in her honor are suggested to the Opportunity Center at the Arthur Lesow Community Center. Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com.