Barbara R. Ward

Barbara Regina Ward, 87, of Essex, Maryland, passed away peacefully on Monday, November 24, 2025, in Bel Air. Born and raised in Baltimore, she was the daughter of the late Theresa (Ulatowski) Sibiski and the late Joseph Zimnawoda. Throughout her life, Barbara remained proud of her Baltimore roots and the traditions she carried forward from her family.

Barbara was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Harold Ward, with whom she shared many years of love and partnership, and by her devoted daughter, Sharon Kellner, whose memory she held close to her heart.

She leaves behind a family who adored her: her sons, Barry Ward and his wife Rose, and Carl Ward and his wife Melanie; her grandchildren, Kim Kellner, Greg Kellner, Stephanie Herman, Kamryn Ward, and Hope Ward; and her great-grandchildren, Daniel and Marshall Herman, and Penelope and Olivia Kellner. Each of them brought her immense joy, and she took great pride in their accomplishments and the lives they are building.

Barbara lived a life filled with creativity, warmth, and simple pleasures. She had a special gift for the arts, especially painting and ceramics, crafts she pursued with passion and shared generously with those around her. She also enjoyed gardening, cake decorating, often making treats for family celebrations, and loved settling in to watch a classic John Wayne film. Later on, when all her children were in school, she served as a teacher’s aide, librarian and eventually Head Administrator at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Elementary. She loved being around children and helping out wherever she could.

Summers were among her happiest times. Barbara looked forward to days spent fishing, gathering with family, and savoring steamed crabs, a tradition that created many lasting memories. Her easy laughter, steady presence, and love for her family made her the heart of many gatherings.

Above all, Barbara will be remembered for her kindness, her creativity, and the deep love she had for her family. She touched the lives of all who knew her, and she will be missed beyond measure.