Gayla Faye Ward

Gayla Faye Ward, was born Feb. 6, 1970, in Pawnee, she was taken from her family and many friends on Thursday, June 23, 2016, at the age of 46. At the time of her death she was living and working in the Rush Springs area.

Gayla began her school years in Ponca City and graduated high school in Arlington, Texas. She married and had four children whom she devoted her entire life to. She was always a hard worker and excelled at any task she was asked to do.

She was a selfless daughter and loving and compassionate sister. She was generous with her time and helped anyone in need. Motherhood was above all her greatest joy.

The family who will be lost without Gayla include her father, Fred Ward and wife Rhonda and mother, Beverly Bush and husband “Pops” Lee Bush, all of Ponca City. She has one brother, Jeremy Ward and wife Cara and one half brother, Robert Ward, of Ponca City. Her children include, Kirsty (Colt) French, Levi (Nikki) Edwards, Austin Edwards and Dakota Edwards. Her cherished grandchildren include, Shianne French, Bryson and Emma Edwards and a fourth grandchild expected in December. Extended family includes, three aunts, Kathy  (Maurice) Day, Donna (Steve) Madderra and Rita Morehead; one uncle, Melvin (Debbie) Cain and six cousins. Special mention for Gayla’s cousin, Sheli Masterson who was more like a sister to her.

Family that she has been reunited with include paternal grandparents, Oren and Betty Ward; maternal grandparents, Norman and Gayle Cain and two uncles, Steve Cain and Norman Cain Jr.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, July 9, at 2 p.m. at American Legion, Post 14 in the main hall, 407 W. South Ave., Ponca City.