Marilyn June (Cronenwett) Ward

Marilyn June Cronenwett Ward, 100 years old, of Waterford of Mansfield, 1296 S Trimble Road, Mansfield, Ohio died peacefully in her sleep on Wednesday, January 14, 2026.

She was born on June 30, 1925, in Edison, Ohio, daughter of the late George and Gladys Cronenwett. Also, preceded in death by brother, George Cronenwett (1993). Marilyn resided in Edison, Ohio, Mt. Gilead, Ohio, Plant City, Florida and Northport, Florida.

As a graduate of Edison High School and Mt. Carmel School of Nursing in Columbus, OH, Marilyn dedicated her career to nursing, serving her community with compassion for many years. Starting out as a nurse at Galion Hospital and ultimately rising to the position of Director of Nursing for Morrow County Hospital in Mt. Gilead, Ohio.

On September 6, 1946, she married the love of her life, William S. “Bill” Ward, son of Clifford and Mary Ward, who preceded her in death on June 11, 1983. Following Bill’s death, Marilyn retired and moved to Plant City, FL where she enjoyed nearly 40 years of sunshine before returning to Ohio to be closer to family.

She is survived by two daughters, Cynthia Scohy (Bruce) of Mt, Gilead, Ohio and Terri Roesch (Bob) of New Albany, Ohio and one son, William S. Ward (Beth) of Townsend, Montana. She has eight grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren, and four great, great grandchildren. She is also survived by her brother, Larry Cronenwett (Nellie) of Bozeman, Montana and one sister-in-law, Myra Beach, of Pataskala, Ohio.

Marilyn was involved with her children’s activities along with those of her grandchildren and great grandchildren. Marilyn and Bill were avid golfers. She became a passionate baker—known for her cinnamon rolls and pies. Marilyn not only worked outside of the home but was devoted to helping her husband on the farm. She loved to watch sports and play cards with her grandchildren. She also loved to travel abroad and in the United States. Marilyn was a faithful member of the Trinity United Methodist Church in Mt. Gilead, Ohio and First United Methodist Church in Plant City, Florida.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at 11:00 am at Trinity United Methodist Church in Mt. Gilead, Ohio with lunch for close friends and family.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Southern Care of Hospice, 2291 W, Fourth Street, Suite G.,Ontario, Ohio, or The Waterford of Mansfield, Staff Appreciation, 1296 S. Trimble Road, Mansfield, Ohio 44906 or Morrow County Hospital, 651 W. Marion Street, Mt. Gilead, Ohio 43338.

Marilyn will be missed and was loved by many people that have known her. We loved her quick wit and stubbornness. She lived a great, long life. May she rest in peace.