Nell Ward

Nell Basham Ward died on January 29, 2009 at Cabot Nursing Home in Cabot AR. She was born in Whitney, TX on July 8, 1923, the fifth child and only daughter to Thomas and Amber Basham. She was preceded in death by her one true love and husband of sixty-four years, Joe Bailey Ward, Jr., and her four older brothers, Eugene Basham, Fred Basham, Charles Basham and Billie Basham, and sisters-in-law, Jennye Mae Basham, Wilda Basham and Mary Basham. Her survivors include her daughters: Jean Cure of Vilonia, AR, Christina Patterson of Cabot, AR and Bailey Ward of Fernley, NV, her grandchildren: Anna Oberste Larry and Whitney Burns Jay of Vilonia, AR, Melissa Simons of Cabot, AR, and Malcolm Patterson of Rochelle, IL, seven great-grandchildren, four step-great-grandchildren, and two step-great-great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister-in-law Nita Basham of Irving TX. Mrs. Ward was a devoted wife and mother throughout her husband's Air Force career moving around the US and keeping the home fires burning while her husband spent months away from his family. She also volunteered at the Base hospitals and played in a weekly bridge club. Many times her yard and garden were selected for Yard of the Month awards at their on-base housing. She attended chapel services regularly but always returned to the King Memorial Methodist Church in Whitney, TX where she and her husband were married in 1941. Nell and Joe retired to Whitney in the early 90s where they were active in the church, VFW, and Ex-Students group. In 2003, they moved to Arkansas to be near their family as both were in declining health. It was a joy for the family to have them nearby. The family would like to thank the staff at Arkansas Hospice, especially Melissa Wood, for the special tender care given Mrs. Ward. Also the family extends special appreciation to Cabot Nursing Center for their loving care for the past four years. Miss Nell was special to all of them. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Arkansas Hospice, 3022 South Second St, Cabot AR 72023 or to Cabot Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, 200 Northport Dr, Cabot AR 72023.