Obituary

Mrs. Deanna Murray Ward, lovingly known as “Dee Dee,” passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 31, 2026, in Suwanee, Georgia, at the age of 82. Born on October 29, 1943, in Wilmington, North Carolina, Dee Dee lived a life defined by faith, family, and an unwavering generosity that touched everyone she encountered.

As a young woman, Dee Dee volunteered as a candy striper, reflecting the caring and generous spirit that would remain a hallmark of her life. She later began her career as a flight attendant with Piedmont Airlines, a role that exemplified her adventurous spirit. It was during this season of life that she met Bill, who would become her lifelong love and partner. They married on January 11, 1964, and were blessed with two children, Bill and Kelly.

After starting a family, she chose to pause her career and focus on raising her children. Later, she founded her own cleaning company, worked as a sales associate for Clinique, and managed a showroom at the Atlanta Merchandise Mart. In every endeavor, Dee Dee’s strong work ethic and warm personality left a lasting impression on those around her.

Dee Dee’s love for the Lord was the cornerstone of her life. She and her husband, Bill, were charter members of Perimeter Church, where they worked alongside the Belotes, Drinkwalters and many others to support Pastor Randy Pope in establishing a new church community. Her walk with Christ influenced countless lives, leaving a legacy of spiritual strength and compassion.

Dee Dee found immense joy in the simple pleasures of life. A spirited and spunky woman who never met a stranger, she had a gift for making others feel welcome. She was a wonderful neighbor and friend to many. Her kindness extended beyond people to animals as well, and she found immense joy in loving, caring for, and rescuing countless fur babies over the years. She enjoyed spending time outdoors tending to her yard and garden, and cherished every moment by the ocean – especially at Holden Beach and in Wilmington, North Carolina. Above all else, she treasured time spent with her family.  Whether sharing laughter with her grandchildren or making memories with loved ones, Dee Dee’s warmth, generosity, and devotion were constant in their lives. Dee Dee would often tell her children and grandchildren, “Life is precious, live every moment, love Christ, and love each other!”

Dee Dee is survived by her husband of 62 years, Bill, her children, Bill and Carol Ward, Kelly and Eric Bassel, her seven grandchildren, Alexander Ward (Stacy), Michael Ward (Nora), Dylan Ward (Jamie), Nathaniel Ward, Benjamin Bassel (Kelsey Ann), Olivia Drinkwalter (Miles), Natalie Bassel, and one great-grandchild, Selina Jane Ward. She is also survived by her sister Gayle Hunton (Bill).

Dee Dee will be remembered as a devoted wife, loving mother and grandmother, faithful servant of Christ, and a warm-hearted friend to many. Her selflessness and compassion left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing her. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

May the memory of Mrs. Deanna Murray Ward bring comfort to all who knew and loved her.