Debra Irene Wright Ward, beloved wife and mother, escaped her earthly bonds in the early hours of Thursday, October 31, 2024, at the Woltz Hospice Home in Dobson, NC.  She was born to Richard David and Ethel Amburn Wright in Wythe County, Virginia on June 7, 1955.  After graduating from high school, she began work at Mr. Casuals and later at Perry's Manufacturing.  She later began work at Robert Shaw's and remained there until closing.   She returned to school and took classes for Certified Nursing Assistant.  For over twenty years she was dedicated to the patients at Grayson Nursing and Rehab Center where she will be remembered for her kindness and devotion to those she served as well as their families.  She touched many lives in her years of compassionate service.

She was a member of Fellowship Baptist Church in Elk Creek.  She loved collecting Pillsbury Doughboy memorabilia. She was devoted to her dogs, especially "Diesel" and "Reemy".  "Reemy" survives her.  Debby was not one who enjoyed change.  She chose a simple life, void of the trappings of prestige and honor.  She was most content in making a home for her husband and son.  The family is greatly comforted in knowing that she has now joined her son in a reunion that will last forever.

She is survived by her husband, Jackie Ward of the home; daughter in law, Brandi Ward of Independence, VA; brother, Jimmy and Dorthy Wright of Independence, VA; father-in-law, Jack Ward of Elk Creek, VA; and a host of extended family and friends.  She was preceded in death by her son, Jason Ward; her parents, her sister, Charlotte Wilkins; her mother-in-law, Mary Sue Ward; and her sister-in-law, Penny Ward.

Memorial Services will be conducted on Sunday, November  3, 2024, at 3:00 PM at the Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Jeremy Farley and the Rev. David Osborne Officiating.  The family will receive friends from 1:30-3:00 prior to the service at the funeral home.

Flowers are appreciated or memorial contributions may be made to the Elk Creek Rescue Squad PO Box 130 Elk Creek, VA 24326 or the Elk Creek Fire Department 547 Comers Rock Road Elk Creek, VA 24348.

Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home is serving the Ward family.