Artie Ward Byrge, age 88, of Jacksboro, departed this life on Thursday, January 19, 2023 at Tennova North. She was born on September 19, 1934 to the late Lorenzo Kennedy and Artensie (Patterson) Kennedy. Artie was a loving mother and sister that enjoyed spending time with her family and her dog Judy and going in the mountains looking for ginseng.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by the father of her children John Ward; second husband Leoda Byrge; daughters Ernie Ward and Darlene Ward; several deceased brothers and sisters; and grandchild Mark Housley.

She is survived by her sons Gary Ward and wife, Gina of Huntsville, John Ward of Jacksboro, and Steven Ward of Huntsville; daughter Debbie Housley of Jacksboro; grandchildren Charolette Claiborne,  Robby Smith, Calvin Ward, Dustin Ward, Isaac Ward, Jacob Ward, and Kaleb Ward; and a host of other relatives and friends.

A visitation will be from held from 5:00-7:00 PM on Sunday January 22, 2023 in the chapel of Martin Wilson Funeral Home with the funeral to follow at 7:00 PM with Rev. Leon Fritts officiating. Family and friends will meet at 1 PM at the Ward Family Cemetery at 9020 Stoney Fork Road Huntsville, TN on Monday January 23, 2023 for interment.

The family has entrusted the care of Artie Ward Byrge to Martin Wilson Funeral Home “Where Families Matter Most.”

Artie’s guest book may be viewed at www.martinwilsonfuneralhome.com