Scotia, NY- Jo-Ann Loretta Sullivan Ward, 83, of Ballston Spa, NY, died Thursday, June 11, 2026 at Baptist Health Nursing Rehabilitation Center surrounded by members of her family.

She was born in Wilmington, VT on March 30, 1943 the daughter of Eugene and Hannah (Nolan) Sullivan. She was baptized on April 25, 1943 and received her confirmation at Our Lady of Fatima Church on October 22, 1960. Like so many teens growing up in Wilmington, she worked at Dots Restaurant and The Old Red Mill. Jo-Ann graduated from Wilmington High School in 1962.

She met her husband, Donald Amos Ward, Sr. and they were married in Greenwich, NY on April 15, 1962. They made their home in Glens Falls, NY where they had four children; Donald Jr., Terri, Eugene, and David.

For over 30 years Jo-Ann was a dedicated caregiver at Pleasant Valley Infirmary in Argyle, NY. She thought enjoyed her time there interacting with the residents and planning day trips for them. Her activity planning continued after retired when she planned adventurous outing with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Jo-Ann enjoyed starting her day having her morning coffee and watching the birds in her many birdfeeders. She had a quirky sense of humor delivering jokes deadpan and often with a mischievous twinkle in her eye.

She loved camping, boating, sibling trips to the casino, animals – particularly her cat, arts and crafts projects with her grandchildren, and was an avid NASCAR fan who supported Jeff Gordan. One of her fondest memories was a trip with her sisters to Nashville. Jo-Ann was a lifetime member of the Nelson E. Pickwell Unit 15 of The American Legion Auxiliary in Wilmington.

Members of her surviving family include three children, Donald “Duffer” (Penny) Ward, Jr., Terri (Jerry) Lancto, David (Luanne) Ward; grandchildren, Wayne, Nikki, Jermey, Joshua, David Jr., Tyler, and Collin; 18 great grandchildren; and 3 great great grandchildren; siblings, Sandra (David) Gilderdale, Shirlee (Joe) Sullivan, Eugenia (William) Shearer, Edward (Julie) Sullivan, and Joni Sullivan. Jo-Ann is also survived by her dear friend Joe and many nieces. nephews, and loving cousins.

She is predeceased by her parents; her husband; her son, Eugene “Tiger” Ward; granddaughter, Tatreeanna; and great grandson, Carter.

A family graveside service will be held on July 12, 2026 at 11a.m. at Interval Cutting Cemetery, Smith Road, Wilmington, Vt 05363.

Following burial, a celebration of life will be held at the Dover Town Hall, 189 Past Brook Road, East Dover, Vt 05363 until 3 p.m.

The family would like to express their gratitude to the care team at Baptist Health Nursing Rehabilitation Center (BHNRC) for the excellent care they provided Jo-Ann during her residency there.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Sunshine Fund, 297N Ballston Ave., Scotia NY 12303 ATTN: Development Office.

Condolences may be sent directly to Baker Funeral Home, 11 Lafayette St., Queensbury, NY 12804, or through www.bakerfuneralhome.com.