Janet Crichfield Ward, 1947-2022

Janet Crichfield Ward, 74, of Lake Wales passed away on August 7, 2022, after a long illness.

She was born October 17, 1947, in Belle Glade, Florida, to Charles and Bertha Crichfield. She graduated from Belle Glade High School in 1965. After relocating to Lake Wales, she graduated from USF in 1970 where she was a member of the Kappa Alpha Theta sorority. She went on to attain her master's degree in 1981.

Janet became an educator for the Polk County School System where she rose to the role of assistant principal. She worked at Janie Howard Wilson Elementary for many years. Before retiring, she became the reading coach at Garner Elementary. In her over thirty years working in Polk County Schools, Janet dedicated herself to the children in her care as well as the communities she served.

Janet loved cats, arts and crafts, shopping trips with her friends, and beach trips with her husband, Bill. She was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Lake Wales.

She is survived by her loving husband and caregiver of thirty-nine years, William G. "Bill" Ward; her children, Heather Bachtel (Chris) and Heath Ward (Brigitte); and grandchildren, Brynna Bachtel, Kyra Ward and Bradley Ward.

She was predeceased by her parents, as well as her sisters, Martha "Genie" Collins (Junior) and Virginia "Ginger" Hall (Bill).

Janet will be remembered as a true southern lady and a blessing to all she knew. She was a model of grace, beauty, and love. She was a true and loyal friend to many. She will be missed immeasurably by all whom she touched, loved, and cared for.

A celebration of life service will be held 11:00 a.m. Friday, August 12, 2022, at Marion Nelson Funeral with visitation beginning at 10:30 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Alzheimer's Association or First Presbyterian Church.