Paula Ward, 71, of Avon, passed away at 3:30 p.m., Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at the OSF St. Mary Medical Center in Galesburg. She was born January 5, 1955, in Avon, Illinois, the daughter of Jim and Norma (Jones) Harrison. She was raised and educated in Avon graduating in 1973.
She married Howard Ellison and they later divorced. She married Willie Lagerstrom and he preceded her in death. She married Robert Ward on July 21, 2000, at the Fulton County Courthouse and he survives.
Those left to cherish her memory are her husband Bob of Avon; one daughter, Jennifer (John) Rineberg of Ogden, Illinois; grandchildren, Dennis and Dylan Rineberg; brother, Rodney “Harry” Harrison of Morton, Illinois.
She was preceded in death by one brother, David Harrison in 1978 at the age of 10; her parents and grandparents.
Paula worked for the ABATE of Illinois as their office manager for 40 years. She enjoyed riding her Harley all over the country. She loved the outdoors and enjoyed camping and swimming with her grandchildren. She loved animals especially her cats.
Cremation rites have been accorded. A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m., Sunday, February 15, 2026, at the funeral home. A time of visitation will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. prior to the service. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and ABATE of Illinois, and left in the care of the funeral home. Moore Memorial Home, Avon, is handling the arrangements. For more information or to leave an online condolence, please visit our website at www.moorememorial.com.
