Dorothy Dian Ward

Dorothy Dian Ward, age 73, of Chalmers, IN, passed away on October 30, 2026. Dian was born on January 11, 1953 in Lafayette, IN to the late James J. Lucas and Vivian E. Wright (Peden). She graduated from Jefferson High School and went on to work at Landis and Gyr for over 20 years. After they closed , she worked as receptionist, before retiring in June of 2026.

Dian was known for her extraordinary joy for life, her genuine kindness, and her deeply loving spirit. Anyone who had the privilege of meeting her instantly adored her. Time and again, people would say, “Oh, I just love your mom. She is so sweet.” Those simple words perfectly captured who she was. Dian’s greatest legacy was her unwavering belief in being kind, loving everyone, and making the world a little brighter wherever she went.

Family was the center of Dian’s life. She loved with her whole heart and never missed an opportunity to remind those she cherished just how important they were to her. She had a remarkable gift for making every person feel like they were the most important person in the world. Whether it was sending thoughtful birthday gifts, calling to make sure they arrived safely, or simply checking in to say “I love you,” Dian made sure her family always felt her love.

She treasured every family gathering and could always be found with a camera in her hand, ready to capture every smile, laugh, and special moment. She believed those memories were precious gifts that should be preserved forever, and because of her, countless moments will continue to be cherished for generations.

Of all the roles she held in life, being a mother and grandmother brought her the greatest joy. Her most treasured moments were those spent with her children and her beloved grandson, Blake. She faithfully attended his shows and performances, often sitting right up front, proudly recording every moment on her phone. She loved sharing stories about Blake and celebrating his accomplishments with family and friends.

Dian especially loved watching the special bond between her husband, Gary, and Blake through their shared passion for music. Some of her happiest memories were made during practice nights at her home, when everyone would gather for dinner and spend the evening playing music together. She particularly treasured the time Blake would stay after everyone had gone home so they could sit and talk for hours. Those conversations were among her most cherished moments.

Her devotion to her children was evident every day. Nearly every morning, Dian would wake up early to call her son, David, after his night shift, asking how work had gone and reminding him how much she loved him. Afterward, she would call her daughter, Misty, during her drive to work, simply to wish her a wonderful day and tell her she loved her. These daily acts of love reflected the deep connection she shared with her family, a bond she often described as one of Dian’s greatest blessings.

Dian also loved reminiscing about her childhood in Lafayette. She delighted in sharing stories of downtown Lafayette, her favorite places, and the adventures she had with lifelong friends. She believed stories should never be forgotten and took every opportunity to keep those memories alive.

Dian was truly one of the most remarkable people anyone could hope to know. She consistently put others before herself, loved unconditionally, sought peace in every situation, and found joy in life’s simplest blessings. To know her was to be touched by her kindness and warmth. Though she will be deeply missed, her legacy lives on through the countless lives she impacted. As long as we continue to choose kindness, treasure our families, and lead with love, a part of Dian will remain with us always.

Dian is survived by her husband Gary Ward; daughter, Misty (Steve) Richard; sons, David Green and Adam (Robin) Richardson; grandchildren, Blake (Shianne) Watts, Lukas Arnow, Keaton Richard, and Kennedy (Avery) Grimes; great-grandkids, Finnick & Sebastian Holsclaw and Maverick Grimes; brother, Tony (Lori) Lucas; sisters, Ina Vansas, Lois (Dan) Rincon, and Kim Peden.

She was preceded in death by her parents as well as her brothers, Clarence Benito Lucas and James Lucas Jr.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, November 5th from 4:00 PM until time of service at 6:00 PM, all at Hahn-Groeber Funeral Home in Lafayette. Hahn-Groeber Funeral Home of Lafayette is honored to serve the Ward family. Please leave memories and condolences at hahngroeberfuneralhome.com