Mary Lou Smith Ward

Mary Lou Smith Ward, 94, of Hope, AR passed away Saturday, May 10, 2025, in Hope.

Mary Lou was born in Hempstead County, AR to William “Dump” Franklin and Lillie Pearl Nation Smith. She spent her time working on the farm but also loved to sew and hand stitch quilts. Mrs. Ward was a long-time member of Bethany Church and blessed many of the members by crocheting their last names to frame. Her favorite past time was spending as much time as she could with her family, grandchildren, great grandchildren and great-great children.

Mary Lou is preceded in death by her parents, husband, Wylie Edward Ward, brother William “Obie” Smith, son Glenn Edward Ward, and grandson Ryan Corey Ward.

Survivors include her son Ronnie Wayne Ward (Diane); daughter-in-law Kay Ward; grandson Jeremy Ward (Christy), granddaughter Alisha Blagg (Jesse); nine great grandchildren, Ryan Ward, Colton Ward, Dillan Gilkey, Cole Ward, Jesse Jr. Blagg, Brittany Carter, Ellery Ward, Talon Ward, and Brooke Tullis; five great-great grandchildren.

Visitation will be held 9:00am on Friday, May 16, 2025, at the Herndon-Fuqua Funeral Home Chapel. Funeral services to follow immediately with Bro. Eric Fisher officiating. Interment will follow at Bethany Cemetery, under the direction of Herndon-Fuqua Funeral Home.

We also invite you to express your public condolences at www.herndonfuquafuneralhomes.com or private Letters of Love at www.herndonfuquafuneralhomes.com/page/letters-of-love.