Mae Bertha Ward, 80, affectionately known as "Bunchie", was born in Columbus, Mississippi on September 6, 1938. Mae was the eldest of seven children born to Willie James, Sr. and Corean Williams. Mae and her parents later relocated to Kansas City, Missouri.

Mae was educated in the Kansas City, Missouri School District and graduated in 1956. Mae loved the lord and was a faithful member of Christian Tabernacle under leadership of Bishop Newton, until her health began to fail.

Mae enjoyed her family. She had a special place in her heart for the kids; she raised a lot of kids in the neighborhood. She would tell them old family stories and always have a toy for them. She could sit and laugh for hours just reminiscing. She also had a love for hats and had one to match everything she wore.

Mae made her heavenly transition on September 17, 2018. She was preceded in death by both parents, Willie James, Sr. and Corean Williams; two sisters, Willie lee and Clardine Williams; three brothers, Dorl, Willie Jr., and Ronald Williams; and a niece, Sandra Williams.

She leaves to cherish her memory: her husband of over fifty years, Chester "Leon" Ward; step son, Kevin; brother, Charles Williams; two sisters-in-law, Lois Williams and Annie Williams all of Kansas City, MO; Omar Prentis who was like a son and a host of nephews, nieces, cousins and friends. Mae will be truly missed.

Funeral services Monday, September 24, 11:00 a.m. at Duane E. Harvey Funeral Directors. Interment Blue Ridge Lawn Memorial Gardens. Visitation 10:00-11:00 a.m. at the chapel. Services conducted by Duane E. Harvey Funeral Directors. Condolences may be shared on our website.