Gloria Jean Ward

June 30, 1947 - December 14, 2017

Gloria Jean Ward, 70, of Long Branch, passed away on Thursday December 14, 2017. She was a lifelong jersey shore native. Born in Neptune to William Oliver and Gloria Elaine Hope, Gloria was the oldest of six children. She grew up in Wall Township along with her siblings. Gloria spent time in the nursing field before going to work for the government at the Commissary on Fort Monmouth from were she retired. For the past two years Gloria has resided at Monmouth Care Center in Long Branch where they provided quality services, ensuring her comfort and well being. Gloria loved to be around her family who fueled her lust for life. In her spare time she enjoyed doing crafts and gardening. She enjoyed and was very active in participating in the activities at Monmouth Care Center with her friends. Gloria will be remembered for her commitment to helping others and her determination to keep going no matter what the odds. Gloria was predeceased by her beloved husband: Richard K. Ward, Sr. She is survived by four children: Scott Miles, Brian Miles and his long time girlfriend Nancy Pizzichillo, Richard Ward, and Michelle Wigglesworth and her husband Iain; seven grandchildren: Jason, Brittany, Charles, Bran, Tessa, James, and Emma; four sisters: Alice, BettyAnn and her husband Robert, Dale and her husband Alan, and Joyce and her husband Phillip; one brother: William and his wife Rosemary; and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews. Visitation will be held 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 PM, with an 8 PM funeral ceremony, on Monday, December 18 at Bongarzone Funeral Home, Tinton Falls, NJ. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in Gloria’s name to the Activities Department at Monmouth Care Center (229 Bath Ave Long Branch, NJ 07740). To leave an online condolence, please visit Gloria’s memorial page at www.bongarzonefuneralhome.com