Shirley Ward

Shirley Ward, born on January 16, 1936, in Earlville, NY, passed away peacefully on January 18, 2026, in Flemington, NJ. She was a beloved matriarch whose warmth and kindness touched the lives of many around her.

Shirley dedicated much of her career to the semi-conductor industry, working as an assembly line worker for RCA Corp in Bridgewater, NJ, before moving on to Anadigics in Warren, NJ, where she retired. Her work ethic and commitment set a strong example for those who knew her.

Known for her nurturing spirit, Shirley had a profound love for her family, often taking on a maternal role for everyone around her. She cherished the simple life at her home, finding joy in tending to her bountiful vegetable and flower gardens, and caring for many cats that brought happiness to her days. In the kitchen, she delighted in baking, with favorites including cherry and lemon meringue pies and her famous crusts, which will be fondly remembered by her family.

Throughout her life, Shirley experienced various places, living on US Army bases in Brooklyn, NY; Honolulu, HI; and Fort Ord in California during her marriage to her late husband, Raymond Ward, who predeceased her in 1993. In their years together, they established a loving foundation for their family.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Leroy and Alice (Watson) Yerton, her daughter Lindy Solis in 2009, and her grandson Matthew Czaikowski in 2025.

Shirley is survived by her loving family, including her children Robin and Peter Czaikowski of Clover, SC, Todd Ward of Clover, SC, and Kelly and Scott Kelco of Flemington, NJ. Her legacy of love, kindness, and dedication will continue through her family and all those she touched throughout her life.  Shirley was also a proud grandmother and great-grandmother, often entertaining and sharing stories with grandchildren Yvonne, Joanne, Randy, and her granddaughter-in-law, Deborah Delp. The joy of her great-grandchildren, Aiden, Morgan, Yailen, Steven, Kyle, McKenzie, and Karleigh, brought her immense happiness and fulfillment.

Interment will be private in Somerset Hills Memorial Park in Basking Ridge NJ where she be laid to rest alongside her beloved Raymond.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home, 147 Main St., Flemington NJ 08822.  For further information or to leave an online condolence, please visit www.holcomberfisher.com.