Linda Jenella Ward Richardson, 82, passed peacefully in the comfort of her home on Monday, November 11. She is survived by her husband, Purvis; and her son, Ward, who inherited her forthright nature, and his wife Pam. She adored her granddaughters, Gracyn and Elizabeth, and will no doubt continue to keep a watchful eye on them. Linda joins her children, Frank and Julie, who she often said were waiting for her “up there,” as well as her late parents, Raleigh and Leora Ward.
Linda was born in Effingham on September 22, 1942, graduated from Pamplico High School, and then earned her BS from Coker College. As the last graduate of the McLeod Infirmary School, Linda dedicated herself to a 30-year career in nursing at McLeod Hospital, where her patients received more than just care-they received the “Linda treatment,” a firm but loving approach that left an impression.
A woman with a curious mind and a knack for storytelling, Linda was the unofficial family historian. Linda had a deep love for her family’s history and spent years tracing the genealogy of the DeWitt and Ward families. Through her genealogical research, she uncovered Ward family roots reaching back to the Revolutionary and Civil Wars, a legacy she took pride in and shared with anyone willing to listen (and some who weren’t!). Her sense of humor and forthright storytelling brought family history to life, and she always had a story ready.
Linda’s hands were rarely still; she crafted countless gifts through crochet and knitting, including Warrior Caps. She was also a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution and found meaning in her community at Central Methodist Church.
Linda is survived by her siblings, Reba May, Raleigh Ward, Gail Gelezinski, and Kay Belanger and many nieces and nephews who learned to appreciate her “tell it like it is” approach to life.
A service honoring Linda’s life and her unique spirit will be held at Central United Methodist Church, 167 South Irby St, Florence, SC 29501, Saturday, November 16, 2024, at 11:00 AM with the visitation from 10:00-11:00 AM in the Commons area prior to the service directed by Stoudenmire-Dowling Funeral Home.
Memorial donations may be made to The Sunshine Sunday School Class at Central United Methodist Church at 265 W Cheves St, Florence, SC 29501, in Linda’s name, to carry forward her legacy of fierce loyalty and love.