Anna Mae Mills Ward

Surrounded by her loving family, Anna Mae Ward peacefully passed away on Saturday, October 26, 2024. Born on May 20, 1938, in Clifton, Idaho, to George and Anna Elizabeth Mills, Anna Mae was the youngest of seven children. She spent her early years between Lewiston, Utah, in the winters and Clifton in the summers. After graduating from North Cache High School, Anna Mae attended LDS Business College, where she earned a degree in business.

On June 5, 1959, she married the love of her life, Earl Ward, and together they built a life filled with love and devotion. They were blessed with four children and shared a deep connection, spending most of their life on their farm in Dayton, Idaho. Anna Mae found joy in every adventure Earl embarked on, whether riding horses, checking the canal, hunting, playing cards, or cheering on the West Side Pirates. Her greatest pride was in supporting her children and grandchildren, attending their activities.

Anna Mae had a remarkable love for music and shared her gift with others, teaching piano for many years. She was cherished as a Primary and Ward chorister and found great fulfillment in leading the ward choir, especially during Christmas cantatas. Her faith was central to her life, and she dedicated her time to various church callings, fostering close connections with the youth and all those she served alongside.

For 45 years, Anna Mae was a beloved member of the West Side School District. She drove the school bus across numerous bus routes. She was a paraprofessional, working directly with students. Her compassion and kindness left a lasting impact on generations, and she delighted in seeing former students throughout her life, greeting them with warmth. Anna Mae formed cherished friendships with her colleagues, remaining close to them over the years.

Anna Mae Mills Ward is survived by her children: Deanna (Kim) Baird of Idaho Falls, Idaho; Melanie (Hank) Povey of Clifton, Idaho; Lynette (Steve) Buttars of Weston, Idaho; and Richard (Angela) Ward of Clifton, Idaho; 17 grandchildren, and 36 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her brothers, Robert and Glen Mills of Salt Lake City, Utah. She was preceded in death by her husband Earl, her parents and two brothers, Norman and Joseph Mills.

Funeral services will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 2, at the Clifton Ward Chapel (170 W 100 N, Clifton, ID). Friends and family are invited to call from 1:00 to 2:30 p.m. at the chapel. Interment will be in the Clifton Idaho Cemetery. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at webbmortuary.com

Anna Mae’s legacy of love, faith, and music will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.