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1935
2018
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.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
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
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