On January 23, Fran Ward passed away peacefully at home in Bryn Mawr, surrounded by her family. She was 82.

Fran was the center of our Ward family. She will be deeply missed by family, friends, coworkers, and all who knew her. 

Fran and John Ward were married for 59 years. They were a team at home and at work. Fran expertly handled all the office administration at John B. Ward & Co. and developed the organizational systems we use today. Fran’s office was always highly organized, every account balanced to the penny. She developed friendships with our customers, employees, and vendors. Her smile and positive personality shone every day.

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Fran’s work with John led to her involvement with the International Society of Arboriculture, Penn-Del Chapter. She was a dependable volunteer at the annual Lancaster symposium and with the newly created Certified Arborist program. Fran also established a scholarship fund for students pursuing course work in arboriculture. The first fundraiser at John and Fran’s house in Villanova grew into dinner dance fundraiser events at Longwood Gardens. Fran was proud of the amount of money raised at these events and made sure every dollar went to student education. Her work culminated in the establishment in 2013 of the Fran Ward Women in Arboriculture Scholarship, which is administered by the International Society of Arboriculture Tree Fund.

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Fran led a full life. In addition to raising seven children and running the John B. Ward & Co. office, she volunteered at St. Thomas of Villanova Church, taught CCD, played tennis, bowled, donated meals, cheered loudly at her boys’ sporting events, hosted family dinners at every opportunity, maintained friendships, and was always ready to start a
new friendship.

We are comforted knowing Mom is watching over us and will always be with us.

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