Gertrude Mae Ward (Butterfield) was born in Wichita, Kansas, on January 8, 1932, to Claude and Leona Butterfield. She passed away peacefully in Wichita, Kansas, on May 5, 2026, at Park West Plaza, after being lovingly cared for by family members and close friends.

After graduating from North High School, Gertie married C.W. Ward on April 10, 1955. She worked for Boeing, later for Wickstrom’s Beauty Supply, and eventually for the State of Kansas unemployment office, where she retired at the age of 75.

Gertie was a devoted daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great grandmother. She loved spending time with her family, swimming, traveling, and making trips to Kansas City to visit her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. In her later years, she especially enjoyed walking around Walmart with her husband and socializing with the many friends they made over the years.

Her relationship with Christ was the foundation of her life. She faithfully attended church services, helped organize and operate church events, and spent much of her life sharing the love and grace of Jesus with others.

Gertie was preceded in death by her husband, C.W. Ward; her parents; her siblings; and her great-grandson, Christian Ward.

She is survived by her son, James Ward (Patricia Hilton); her granddaughters, Angela Ward and Anita Ward; eight great-grandchildren; six great-great-grandchildren, with one more on the way; and many beloved family members and friends.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Grace Church of the Nazarene 1024 West 53rd St N, Wichita, KS 67204.