Gwendolyn Ward, 77, of Niagara Falls, NY, passed away peacefully on January 8, 2026, at Mt. St. Mary's Hospital. Born in New Orleans, LA, she was the daughter of the late Charles Frank Sr. and Mary Louise (Lodge) Montgomery, and the step-daughter of the late John W. Montgomery.

Gwendolyn moved to Niagara Falls in 1972 and married David C. Ward on July 19, 1977. She dedicated more than 30 years of service to the Schoellkopf Health Care Facility, where she was known for her kindness, reliability, and compassion. Following her and her husband's retirement, the two moved to Las Vegas, NV for many years and later moved back to the Niagara Falls to be closer to their family.

She loved shopping and walking around fairs. In addition, she also loved tending to her plants and cherished every moment spent with her family.

In addition to her husband, David, Gwendolyn is survived by her children, Sean Lorraine, Kimberly Lorraine, and Brandi (Mannie) Abrams; her step-children, Ronald Ward and Breanna Ward; nine grandchildren; several loving great-grandchildren; four siblings, Eunice (late Gerald) Trent, Charles M. Frank, Diane F. Guthery, Donell (Windelin) Frank; three half-siblings, Broderick Frank, Quintera Frank and Arianna Frank; one aunt Elca F. Smith. She is also survived by a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family who loved her dearly.

Visitation will be on Thursday, January 15 from 5 – 7 PM at M.J. Colucci & Son Niagara Funeral Chapel, 2730 Military Road, Niagara Falls, NY. Visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.