Click here to view the livestream of Jackie's Mass Of Christian Burial Service.

Jacqueline "Jackie" Florence Ward passed away on Sunday, March 24, 2024, at the age of 95, at the Estelline Nursing and Care Center.  She was born on 4/10/1928 to Joseph and Bessie Braun.  She attended school in DeSmet, SD where she graduated from high school.  She then attended a program in Huron, SD where she obtained a secretarial certificate, and then worked for REC in DeSmet.  She met and married Robert E. Ward from Bryant, SD in 1951 and they were known for their moves on the dance floor. They moved to Estelline, SD and were co-owners of Ward Store.

Jackie was a devoted wife, mother, & grandmother, and her family meant everything to her.  She was a kind and caring person, who was always happy and saw the good in everyone.  She always reached out to help those in need.  Jackie was also known for her wonderful Christmas Programs that she held at St. Francis Church and of course her grandchildren were in the star roles.  She knew she could spend extra time with them so they would do a good job.

Jackie was an active member of St. Francis Church and the Ladies Altar Society.  She chaired many meals that were served at this church.

She had six children, Gayle (Gregg) Stroschein of Elk Point, SD; James (Jennie) Ward of Mankato, MN; Michael (Patti) Ward of Estelline, SD; Joseph (Charlie) Ward of Brookings, SD; Shon (Kim) Ward of Estelline, SD; and Scott (Connie) Ward of Watertown, SD.

She is survived by her six children, fifteen grandchildren, twenty-eight great grandchildren, two great great grandchildren, and a brother David (Vera) Braun from Indiana.

She was preceded in death by her husband Robert, parents Joe & Bessie Braun, a brother Jimmy Joe, and three sisters (Mary Jensen, JoAnn Kirby & Karen Hoecherl).

Jackie has impacted many peoples' lives, and her love will continue to shine through her family. We will continue to see the goodness in other people. The family would like to thank all the staff at the Estelline Care Center for all the wonderful care they provided for Jackie.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 am on Saturday, April 6, 2024, at St. Francis De Sales Catholic Church in Estelline, SD. Visitation will be held the night prior from 5:00 pm to 6:30 pm with a 6:30 pm Prayer Service on April 5, 2024, at St. Francis De Sales Catholic Church in Estelline. Her final resting place will be at St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery in Bryant, SD with her husband. Geise Funeral Home will live-stream the Mass at www.geisefuneralhome.com website, you may click on the link above Jackie's obituary.