Mary "Liz" Elizabeth (Jones) Ward

Mary Elizabeth Ward, known lovingly to family and friends as Liz, passed away on March 28, 2026, in Columbus, Georgia, at the age of 91.

Born on December 22, 1934, to Hollis Jones and Allie Elizabeth Nix, Liz lived a long and meaningful life marked by devotion to her family, a generous spirit, and a warm presence that touched everyone who knew her. She married Earl Charlie Ward and carried the name of wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother with grace and pride throughout her life. Liz was a woman who found joy in the simple and enduring things of life, and she was especially known for her love of shopping, her talent as a great cook, and her steadfast care for others. She was kind in the truest sense of the word.

Liz was a caregiver to everyone she loved, and her life reflected a deep commitment to putting others first. She had a gentle way of making people feel welcome and valued, and her kindness left a lasting impression on all who were blessed to know her. She also enjoyed cheering on the Atlanta Braves, and that love of baseball was one of the many small joys that brought her happiness over the years. Her family will remember her not only for the care she gave, but also for the laughter, wisdom, and steady presence she brought into their lives.

She is survived by her son, Randy Outlaw; her three grandchildren, Tami Pope, Heather Brock, and Amy Bailey; and her nieces, Charlene Fogt, Elizabeth Davis, Denise Briggs, Sarah Stringfellow, and Darlene Moates; nephews Mike Ramsey, Jimmy Jones, and Ricky Wade; cousins Bobby Jones, Sue Pate, Claudia Frances, Sharon Castora, and Doug Jones; great-grandchildren Tyler Pope, Colby Pope, Sidney Bailey, Myra Bailey, Gabriel Brock, and Emma Brock; and great-great-grandchildren Kennedy and Nora. Her family was a source of great pride and joy to her, and she treasured each of them deeply.

Liz was preceded in death by her husband, Earl Charlie Ward; her son, Wayne Outlaw; her parents, Hollis Jones and Allie Elizabeth Nix; and her siblings, Josephine Stringfellow, Lucille Mulford, James Jones, Pauline Allen Ramsey and Richard Jones. Their memories remained close to her heart throughout her life.

Liz’s life will be honored with a Visitation on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Colonial Funeral Home in Phenix City, Alabama. Funeral services will follow on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at 12:00 PM in the Colonial Funeral Home, with burial to take place at Fort Mitchell National Cemetery.

Mary Elizabeth Ward will be remembered for her loving heart, her strong family ties, and the many ways she cared for others. Her life was a reflection of kindness, devotion, and quiet strength, and her memory will continue to live on in the hearts of those who loved her most. 

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