Jomarie Ward

1935 - 2018

Jomarie Ward obituary, 1935-2018, Los Angeles, CA

BORN

1935

DIED

2018

Jomarie Ward Obituary

September 10, 1935 - April 30, 2018 Jomarie Ward died on April 30th, 2018, after a heroic battle of 24 months with ovarian cancer, her beloved son-in-law holding her hand. She died as she lived; brave, strong, and larger than life. Jomarie was born in Portland, Oregon, on Sept. 10th, 1935. She exhibited a remarkable singing talent at a young age, and was given her own local radio show when she was thirteen. When she was 18 she came to Los Angeles to attend Pasadena City College and study acting. Her first professional job was on The Donna Reed Show. That led to fifty-five more years of being in a career that she loved. Her film and television credits include a funny recurring role on Betty White's 'Off Their Rockers,' and the Oscar-nominated 'El Norte,' playing a clueless Beverly Hills housewife. Her vast theater credits include 'The Music Man,' playing the part of Marian opposite Eddie Albert; playing the title role in 'Fanny' opposite Walter Slezak; and more recently playing Hannah Ferguson in 'The Spitfire Grill' at the Laguna Playhouse. She also made many singing appearances throughout her life. Her last performance was at The Catalina Grill last October singing 'If Love Were All,' her favorite song. She sang the hell out of it. She was founder and co-owner with Paul Kent of the much acclaimed Melrose Theater for over thirty years. She produced as well as starred in many productions there. Her greatest passion, besides performing, was working tirelessly for The Actors Fund. She gave decades of her life devoting herself to helping her fellow industry brothers and sisters, and she was a past Chair of their Western Council. The final Actors Fund project for which she strongly advocated will break ground next year in Hollywood, providing affordable housing for working artists, as well as rehearsal and performance space for community arts groups. She leaves behind more "adopted family" and dear friends than seems possible. Many folks call her their second mom or spiritual sister. We all remember her as the woman who gave the very best parties, was an amazing chef, always treating people – especially those who had less – with fierce kindness; and she could definitely embarrass us all by singing in public with her "opera voice." Singing in the Ralph's comes to mind. She was cheap as dirt when it came to herself, and generous to a fault when she could help others. Jomarie was predeceased by her husband of 35 years, John Ward, and her sister-in-law Dorothy Ward-Hoffman. She is survived by her loving companion of 23 years, H. David Moss, her daughter Kate Ward-Rosenstock, her son-in-law Marty Rosenstock, David's daughter Rebecca Moss, David's brother Dann Moss, her sometimes well behaved cats, and all of her wonderful chosen family. Her private memorial will be in June. In lieu of flowers, please donate to The Actors Fund.

Published by Los Angeles Times from Jun. 1 to Jun. 3, 2018.
34465541-95D0-45B0-BEEB-B9E0361A315A

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Memories and Condolences
for Jomarie Ward

Not sure what to say?





My wife and I were to have met her and David at some time but my darling Lizzie passed away on 18.9.2017 and Jomarie a few months later. So when David and I met once more for that final time the sadness was not just about it's being the last time - - - it also included those who had passed who were still at our shoulders with arms around us. Bless both those brave gals and I know , yes I KNOW that they are keeping tags on us and getting us through these days of darkness. Bless them for ever .

John Dillon

Friend

May 26, 2019

Your spirit is still present on the hill. Thinking of you every day. We love you, Jomie, and John too. We still have your paintings, Uncle John. Now Barbara is with you. Must be one great party going on up there!
Blessings,
Laurel and Audrey

Laurel James

Friend

May 26, 2019

I am so saddened by this new. I Just re met you after years of not having you in my life. I enjoyed your stories of our family. Your house was like going to my great aunt Kathleen's So warm and inviting. I loved meeting your family, they are wonderful. I can't believe you are gone. Prayers to your love ones. Rest In Peace.

Linda Leah Holstrom- Foster

August 31, 2018

familia torres torres

June 30, 2018

Jomarie you were just an amazing lady, funny, clever and with a huge heart. I know you will be greatly missed. Love ya Z

Zara

June 12, 2018

john dillon

June 11, 2018

Love you so much Aunt Jomarie. Just cannot fathom your absence. Bless your brave, smart, sweet, strong soul. Much Love always from your "other daughter", at least one of them, and the daughter you empowered me to raise in our wonderful village. Sympathy to the real daughter! Our Kate, brave, sweet, smart, and strong just like her Momma, and Marty, and David. Give Uncle John a big hug and Kiss for me!!!! RIP.

Laurel James

June 6, 2018

Love you forever Auntie Jomie.....

Laurel James

Friend

June 6, 2018

dear Jomarie,

Always will I remember your beautiful and shining face, especially at your magical Christmas Parties.

Sending you love always,
Karen

Karen Kondazian

June 3, 2018

Karen Kondazian

June 3, 2018

Showing 1 - 10 of 10 results

Make a Donation
in Jomarie Ward's name

Memorial Events
for Jomarie Ward

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support Jomarie's loved ones
Commemorate a cherished Veteran with a special tribute of Taps at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Jomarie Ward's life and legacy
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more