Judy Kay Plotner Ward

On May 4, 2023, Judith Kay (Hopper) Plotner Ward fulfilled her lifelong pursuit of meeting Jesus face to face at the age of 77. She was born on December 19, 1945, and graduated from Peru High School in 1964. After high school, she pursued cosmetology at the House of James in Indianapolis. On February 27, 1966, she married James Michael “Mick” Plotner, who preceded her in death in 2009. Judy was a devoted farmer's wife and enjoyed assisting Mick in managing the farm. She married Jack Ward on February 14, 2018, and together they traveled to visit their children and grandchildren, shared meals at restaurants, and enjoyed reading together.

Judy had a passion for leading children to the Lord. For over 40 years, she conducted Vacation Bible Schools, counseled church camps, and devoted her life to serving families in her local community. Most recently, she served as Children's Ministry Director at the River Community Church, and also as an administrative assistant. She was always willing to do whatever it took to inspire children to follow Christ even at the expense of her own dignity. There was no idea too extreme if it meant that kids could encounter Jesus.

Judy was a gifted quilter and seamstress. She attended Quilt Camp every year, where she enjoyed equal parts of fellowship with friends and sewing quilts for members of her family. She also sang with the Oldies for the Lord singing group and was involved in various community organizations. She was also a Mary Kay Consultant for more than two decades. Judy was a devoted grandmother who spent endless hours with her grandchildren and most recently, great grandchild. She had a unique talent for making everyone around her feel special and valued. Numerous individuals have expressed that Judy was “their person.” Judy's devotion to Christ through her ministry was apparent in her heart to serve others as evidenced by countless people crediting their growth and discipleship to Judy’s influence.

Judy is survived by her husband, Jack Ward of Marion; children, Jon (Charlene) Plotner of Seattle, Washington, Amanda (Jeff) Exmeyer of Peru; bonus children, Scott (Elna) Ward of Rockville, Maryland, Brian (Melissa) Ward of Phoenix, Arizona; grandchildren, Allyson (Kyle) Dinn, Selah Plotner, Mackinsey (Daulton) Wentz, Samara Plotner, Max Exmeyer, Miles Exmeyer, Piper Exmeyer, Dashal Ward, Wyatt Ward, Loralei Ward, and Emerson Ward; great grandchild Logan Dinn.

Judy is preceded in her passing by her late husband, Mick Plotner; mother, Juanita Black.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the College Park Chapel of Armes-Hunt Funeral Home and Cremation Services. A visitation will be held at The River Community Church, 759 South Lenfesty Ave., Marion, IN 46953 on May 8, 2023 from 2-8pm. A service will be held on May 9, 2023 at 10am, with Pastor Matthew Trexler, Pastor Jon Plotner, and Pastor Denver Burns conducting the service. A private family burial will take place at a later time.

In lieu of flowers the family requests that memorial contributions be made to The River Community Church, 759 South Lenfesty Ave., Marion, IN 46953.