Jill Ward Obituary

Jill Ward, an active community leader, died peacefully at home on May 11 after a long battle with cancer at age 78.

Born and raised in New York, Jill graduated from a Manhattan private girl's school and received a BA degree from the University of Michigan. She spent her career in New York which included working at Random House publishing, the New York office of the Aspen Institute, and as an analyst for Peter Pattison Inc., a commercial real estate firm.

While working at the Aspen Institute in the 1970's she met Foxie Mason. Their close friendship led to an invitation to visit Durango. After the events of 9/11, Jill decided to leave New York and move to Durango, which became her home. She enthusiastically embraced the Colorado and Southwest lifestyle, hiking, skiing, and walking her beloved dogs Willow and Topper.

Jill also pursued her love of music and singing. She served as President and board member of Music in the Mountains and was instrumental in founding the Music in the Mountains "High Notes" group. She was a member of the Mancos Valley Chorus, an cappella women's barbershop chorus in Durango (The Women's Prerogative), and played her ukulele with Denise Leslie's ukulele group. Her other activities included ten years as a volunteer at Mesa Verde National Park and board member of the San Juan Archaeology Society. In addition, she served as a board member, treasurer, and secretary of The Ranch in the Hermosa community where she lived.

A widow of Hugh Ward, of New York, she is survived by her sister Jean Dawes, of Palo Alto CA, nephews: John, James, and Adam; Hugh's children: Burke, Evan, Matthew, grandchildren: Madison and Noah and her partner George Widmeyer. She will be greatly missed by her family, friends at The Ranch, and all who knew her. A memorial celebration of her life will be held and announced at a later date. Contributions in her memory may be made to Music in the Mountains, P.O. Box 3751, Durango, CO 81302.