Ruth A. Ward

East Palestine - Ruth A. Ward, 109, formerly of East Grant Street, East Palestine, died Friday, October 6, 2017 at Essex of Salem II where she had resided for several years.

Mrs. Ward was born February 26, 1908 in New Springfield, OH, a daughter of Frank B. and Frances Elser Geiger and had lived in this area all of her life. She had been employed as church secretary at the First United Presbyterian Church, East Palestine for 13 years, retiring in 1970.

She was a member of the First United Presbyterian Church where she was active in circles and the Women's Association and had served as president. She taught the Koinonia Sunday School Class for 45 years; was an ordained Elder of the church; served as clerk of the session; and also served on various church committees. She had served on committees of the Eastminster Presbytery and Presbyterial. She had been a member and past president of the former Twentieth Century Literary Club and also the Alpha Eta Study Club, both of East Palestine. She was also a graduate of King's School of Oratory, Pittsburgh, PA. Ruth loved her town and family and will be missed, she lead a blessed life in a simpler time.

Her husband, William E, Ward, whom she married July 20, 1931 died March 5, 1982. She was also preceded in death by a sister, Mildred V. Kohler and two brothers, Russell E. Geiger and Charles C. Geiger.

She is survived by nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, October 20, 2017 at the Burns Memorial Chapel in Glenview Cemetery, East Palestine with Pastor Doug DeMar officiating. Burial will follow. Friends and family may call one hour prior to the services at the chapel.

Memorial donations in honor of Ruth may be made to the First United Presbyterian Church of East Palestine.

Arrangements were handled by the Van Dyke-Swaney-Rettig Funeral Home, East Palestine.

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