LAURENS, SOUTH CAROLINA. . .Barbara Buckner Ward, wife of 67 years of the late Darance “Red” Elliott Ward, passed away Monday, November 2, 2026, at Martha Franks Retirement Community in Laurens, SC.
Born in Midland City, Alabama, on August 28, 1932, she was a daughter of the late Lyman Thomas and Varna Hamric Buckner. She dedicated her life to her family and community, embodying the true spirit of a homemaker. Barbara was a faithful member of Laurens First Baptist Church. Her commitment to her faith was evident in her participation in the Lurlene Steale Sunday School Class, where she formed lifelong friendships and inspired others with her gentle wisdom and compassion. Barbara was an avid reader, rarely seen without a book in her hand.
She is survived by her son, Robert E. Ward of Columbia, SC; grandchildren, Michael Allen, Chris Allen (Savannah), Taylor Allen and Ryan Ward (Nicole); 5 great-grandchildren, Haley, Emily, Aurora, Ellie, and Clint; a niece, Joyce Gore (Randy); a nephew, Dan Smith; a son-in-law, Eric Allen; longtime caregiver, Patricia Foggie and her family, Henry, Kendra, CJ, Ziyah, and Ace; and other special caregivers, Jessie Pulley and Beverly.
In addition to her parents and husband, she was predeceased by a daughter, Nancy Ward Allen and sister, Bette Smith Hood.
The family will receive friends on Monday, November 9, 2026, at Holman-Headland & Cremations, 305 South Main Street, Headland, AL, from 3:00 until 4:30 P.M.
A graveside service will be held at 10:00 A.M. Tuesday, November 10, 2026, at Midland City Cemetery in Midland City, Alabama conducted by Reverend Joey Hudspeth.
HOLMAN-HEADLAND MORTUARY & CREMATIONS IS IN CHARGE OF ARRANGEMENTS. Phone 334-693-3371. You may sign a guest register at www.holmanmortuaries.com. This establishment does not own a crematory.
