Mary Lou Ward, 71, passed away Wednesday, December 15, 2021 at her home surrounded by much love. Born in Bluffton, Indiana, Mary was a daughter of the late Gerald and Ilene Chapman. Mary grew up in Portland and she attended Portland High School. She was a devoted wife, loving mother, and caring grandmother to her family. She enjoyed watching the Hallmark Channel, playing cards, camping, and spending time with family. Surviving are her husband of 38 years, David Ward; children, Larry (Barbie) Higginbotham, Jerry Higginbotham, Shandra (Jeff) Hathaway, Josh Ward, Jessica (Matt) Clutter; 8 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren; and siblings, Kathy Dalrymple, Bonnie Pogue, Connie Pogue, Joyce Landers, Art Chapman, and Dean Chapman. Service is 4 pm, Sunday, December 19, 2021 at Emmanuel Community Church, 12222 W US-24, with calling from 2 pm until the service. Memorials may be made to Visiting Nurse Hospice or Children's Ministries at Emmanuel Community Church. FairHaven Funeral Home and Cremation Services are handling arrangements.