January 31, 1933 ~ February 5, 2026 

Bobbie Ward Betty Sue “Bobbie” Ward, age 93, of Evensville, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on the morning of February 5, 2026. She is survived by her two daughters, Jerri Sue Ward Marshall and her husband Earl, and Candias Rynell Ward, and her brother, Ron Gothard. She was preceded in death by her devoted husband of 63 years, Jerry Ward; her parents, Earl and Lucille (Poole) Gothard; and her siblings, Mary Gothard, EllaDena Hensley, Jack Gothard, Laura Wedl, and Patsy Gothard. Born on January 31, 1933, in Dayton, Tennessee, Bobbie lived a life defined by energy and elegance. She graduated from Rhea Central High School in 1951, where she played basketball and served as a majorette, early expressions of the confidence, discipline, and flair that would follow her throughout her life. In 1955, Bobbie married Jerry Ward while he was a senior at the University of Chattanooga, where he played football for the Mocs and earned All-American honors. Their marriage became the steady center of a full and vibrant life, marked by shared interests, deep friendships, and an enduring devotion to one another. Jerry affectionately called her by her given name, Betty, the name also embraced by close friends and spoken with love. Bobbie’s professional life reflected both her warmth with people and her natural leadership. She began her twenty-year career with South Central Bell as a switchboard operator - the familiar “number please” voice - later becoming the switchboard supervisor and working in the business office. She and an associate then opened Dayton’s Fashion Shop, where her keen eye, confidence, and personal warmth made her the community’s trusted voice in style. Whether helping a friend choose the perfect outfit or setting trends that others admired and emulated, Bobbie’s sense of style was unmistakable. She later brought her organizational skill and experience to Robinson Manufacturing Company, serving as a production planner until her retirement. Civic involvement and friendship were essential parts of Bobbie’s life. As president of the Four Seasons Garden Club in the 1980s, she led the organization during a period of distinction, earning both the Deep South Award and the Mary Myrick Preservation Award. She was also an avid golfer, spending countless sunny days at Dayton Golf and Country Club with Jerry and a close-knit circle of friends. Golf trips to the mountains, laughter on the course, and lasting friendships defined those years. Even after golf was no longer part of her routine, that same group remained together through the “Birthday Club,” gathering monthly to celebrate one another and the joy of long friendship. Bobbie was known for her impeccable style and confident presence, always well dressed, always composed, and always unmistakably herself. Her poise and natural beauty led her to model for Ivory Studios in her younger years—just one reflection of the way she turned heads effortlessly. Yet what people remembered most was not simply how she looked, but how she made them feel. Bobbie lived with confidence and grace, never afraid to stand out, and always comfortable being exactly who she was. Bobbie and Jerry were married at Trinity Methodist Church in Dayton, where they were devoted members until the church’s closing. They later joined First United Methodist Church, where Bobbie faithfully served on the Altar Guild, the Parsonage Committee and was active in the United Methodist Women. She also led the Sharing and Caring ministry of the church. Bobbie will be remembered for her grace, her wit, her loyalty to family and friends, and the expressive way she lived her life. Her legacy of love, elegance, and community spirit lives on through her daughters and all who were fortunate to know her. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers of StoryPoint Chattanooga and Chattanooga Hospice whose compassionate presence, kindness, and gentle care brought comfort and peace during Bobbie’s final days. Friends are invited to gather to celebrate Bobbie’s life at Trinity Chapel in downtown Dayton on Friday, February 20, 2026 from 4 pm to 8 pm. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to First United Methodist Church, 993 Market Street, Dayton, Tennessee 37321. The family is being served by Coulter-Garrison Funeral Home