Avon Joy Ward

Ward, Avon Joy (née McFadyen)

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Avon on Saturday, March 21st, 2026. She is now together with her first love and husband, Donald George Ward.

Avon was the beautiful Mother of George, a treasured sibling of Brother Lance and Jilly, Sister Grace and Graeme, late Sister Mary McFadyen, Brother Seva and Sue, Brother Michael and Moira, siblings Israela, Marc, Aaron, Kalara McFadyen and Sister in laws, Lynne Corrin and Caroline and Colin Forfitt and loving Daughter of Mickey and Annie.

Her happiest moments were spent with her family, nieces, nephews and cousins.

A loyal friend to many, work colleagues and personal friends alike.

A special thank you to the staff at Hospice Marlborough for their kindness and care.

In lieu of flowers a donation to Breast Cancer Foundation NZ would be appreciated and may be made to a/c 12 3030 0534226 00 Ref. Ward

Avon’s farewell will be held at Sowman’s Funerals, corner of Hutcheson and Parker Streets on Friday, March 27th, 2026 at 11am.

The service will be livestreamed; the link can be found below this notice.

Close friends and family are welcome to visit Avon at home from Tuesday, March 24th to Thursday, March 26th between the hours of 11am and 3pm.

Tribute from Karen Chauval – 
My deepest condolence to all Avon’s family. Avon had such a kind heart and spirit. Fly high Avon.

Tribute from Alix Heather –
So sorry to hear of your mother and mother-in-law passing
It’s such a sad time although I never knew her, I know you Jilly and Seva and Sue (as you cared for my father Rex Nicol)
Love to you all and know I’m thinking about you all, Alix xxx

Tribute from Caroline Forfitt – 
Avon, from the moment we first met you we all loved you. Your bright, vibrant smile. Your laughter. Your kindness. Your wisdom and sense of calm. This troubled world has grown a little darker now you are no longer here. But our love and admiration for you will continue to burn brighter and stronger in our hearts and minds. Always and forever. Sleep well dear one.
With much love,
Caroline, Colin, Chloe and Cecilia.

Tribute from Luba Roth – 
A Dieu, dear Avon.
We’ll keep you in our hearts with that infectious smile and kind heart.
You are an example of determination and resilience.
Our prayers and love go to George and extended family.
A bientôt, Luba. Love, Phillip Roth and Natasha Smith

Tribute from Norma Wilkinson – 
George and extended families Avon were my friend I met many years ago when she came to England, she got a job where I was working and from that day, we just became sole mates, keeping in touch became easier with Facebook and FaceTime. Avon you were one of the best and will be missed greatly ❤️

Tribute from Patricia Warnes – 
That was a beautiful service. Thank you for livestreaming it so I could be a part of Avon’s farewell. Yes Michael you are a writer! Keep it up. And Grace thank you for such a personal tribute. George you will go on to succeed in your life with such a wonderful foundation given by your parents. Everyone’s input was so honouring to Avon and to God. Thank you once again.

Tribute from Suzanne Norton – 
I was very sad when Avon died, she was a beautiful woman & brave patient. The love & respect her son George & siblings showed during her last hours & after death was an inspiration. I just watched her service so fitting.
Fly high Avon 🙏