Jo Ann Ward

Jo Ann Ward

Jo Ann Ward, age 74, passed away peacefully on February 21, 2026, at Gulf Coast Regional Medical Center in Panama City. She was born on March 21, 1951, to Albert and Julie Mixon.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at 11:00 a.m. (CST) on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at Noma Assembly of God, 1062 Tindell Street, Bonifay. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Jo Ann will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband, Jerome Ward, at Noma Cemetery.

Jo Ann married her high school sweetheart, Jerome Ward, in June of 1971, and together they built a life centered on faith, family, and love. She was a devoted and loving mother to her sons, Michael Ward of Headland and James (Linda) Ward of Cottondale.

She was a proud and cherished Nana to Amber, Jacob, and Hannah Hailes. Her greatest joy was her two great-granddaughters, Aaliyah White and Allorah Potter, whom she adored deeply.

Jo Ann loved being a homemaker, tending to her beautiful flower beds, and spending time shopping with her best friend and sister, Joett Peters. She was an active and faithful member of Noma Assembly of God, where she served for many years as an adult Sunday school teacher and church secretary. Serving others brought her great happiness, and her kindness touched many lives.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Jerome Ward; her parents, Albert and Julie Mixon; and several sisters- and brothers-in-law.

She is survived by her two sons and daughter-in-law; her cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren; her sister, Joett Peters (late Charles); her brother, Joseph (Mary Ann); and a host of loving nieces and nephews.

Jo Ann will be remembered for her gentle spirit, unwavering faith, and the deep love she had for her family and friends. Her legacy of kindness and devotion will live on in all who knew her.