Johnnie Mae Garner Ward was born in Albany, Georgia on August 8, 1942, to Beatrice Smith and the late Johnny Garner.  She was the oldest of 12 children.

She attended the public schools of Dougherty County, graduating from Monroe High School where she actively participated in various student organizations and activities.

At a very early age, Johnnie Mae accepted Christ as her Savior and united with Blue Springs Baptist Church.  She was a dedicated member and served faithfully as an Usher.  When standing at the doors of the church, there was always a smile on her face as she greeted those entering the sanctuary.   She dearly loved the Lord and never ceased to give Him the glory and praise for the blessings in her life.  In later years, she continued her walk with the Lord at Bible Way Baptist Church and remained a devoted servant until her demise.  Her faith in God kept her spiritually strong and her unyielding belief in Philippians 4:19, "But my God shall supply all your needs according to hi riches in glory by Christ Jesus" enabled her to remain steadfast and unmovable.

Johnnie Mae was united in holy matrimony to the love of her life, Edward Ward, Sr. They shared a love that knew no boundaries and a devotion to one another that was unshakeable.  Together, they worked diligently to provide a loving and caring home for their five children.  As a wife and mother, she took great care in meeting the needs of her family and ate not the bread of idleness.  For numerous years, she was employed as a seasonal worker at Sunnyland Farms.  While there, she worked in varied capacities and was hailed as a committed, dedicated, and reliable employee.  She was later employed at Sowega Council on Aging where she rendered innumerable years of loyal service.

Loving mother, doting grandmother, caring sister, nurturing aunt, reliable cousin, and compassionate friend, Johnnie Mae was a good natured, generous lady with a big heart and a pleasure to be around.   She believed deeply in unconditional love, enjoyed spending time with family and friends, and delighted in helping and caring for others.  Anyone visiting her home was always greeted with open arms and words of encouragement.  Her kindness to all people and love for her family and friends will long be remembered.  In her free time, she enjoyed fishing, flowers, cooking, traveling, and shopping.

On October 29, 2021, Johnnie Mae transitioned from this earthly journey to everlasting peace with the Lord.  In addition to her father, she preceded in death by her beloved husband, Edward Ward, Sr.; and her brother, Jeffrey K. Hunt.

Precious memories will forever be treasured by her children, Edward Ward, Jr., Felicia (Harold) Collins, April J. Holly, Cyrus (Melissa) Ward, and Melissa Walker; her loving mother, Beatrice Smith; 16 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren; siblings, Otis (Geraldine) Garner, Juanita Walton, Geneva S. Leverett, Delores A. Williams, Leroy (Gwen) Garner, Leonard (Joann) Garner, Mary L. Chattmon, Loretta (Jeffery) Wright, Samuel Hunt, and Rene T. Polite; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and friends.