Joyce Garrett Ward

Joyce Garrett Ward, 81, of Farmville, passed away on Sunday, July 12th, 2026. She was

born in La Mesa, California to the late Victor and Elizabeth Garrett on July 19th, 1944.

She traveled the world with her family before she married Lawrence Ward. They were

married for 47 years.

Joyce’s compassion extended far beyond her home. For many years, she was a

passionate volunteer with the Special Olympics. She believed fiercely in the dignity, joy,

and potential of every athlete. Joyce was also a devoted member of Farmville United

Methodist Church, where she assisted in a variety of roles.

Joyce is survived by her two daughters, Michele Parker (Bill) and Melissa Ward; two

grandchildren, Erin Schultz (Daniel) and Matthew Parker (Michel); and sister-in-laws, Lee

Nell Ward and Anne Ward. She was preceded in death by her parents, Victor and

Elizabeth Garrett; husband, Lawrence Ward; her son, Michael Ward; brother, James

Garrett; brother-in-laws Eugene Ward Jr., Robert Ward, Edward Paul Ward and wife,

Joyce; and sister-in-laws, Elizabeth (Betty) Torrance and husband Allen Torrance, Nell

Sanderson and husband, Jesse, and Martha Covington and husband, Melvin.

Visitation will be on Friday July 17th from 6-8 at Puckett Funeral Home (115 Covington

Court Farmville, VA 23901). Funeral will be on Saturday July 18th at 2:00pm at Farmville

United Methodist Church (204 High Street Farmville, VA 23901) with graveside following

after at Trinity Memorial Gardens (22482 Prince Edward Hwy Rice, VA 23966). The

family would like to invite everyone back to Farmville United Methodist Church for a

reception after the graveside service. In Lieu of flowers, donations may be made to

Virginia Special Olympics Area 12 and Farmville United Methodist Church.

Special Olympics - Audrey Mulder

Farmville United Methodist Church - Rev. Robert Michalides