Ethel Geneva Ward

December 28, 1929 - December 28, 2019

Ethel Geneva Ward passed away peacefully in the presence of loved ones Saturday, December 28, 2019, at age 90. She is survived by her beloved children, Patrick James Raffaniello (Jennifer), Roger Battles (Roxanne), and Tracy Diane Vines (Paul). She leaves behind six grandchildren, Patrick Lee Raffaniello (Saige), Roger Wayne Battles Jr., Michael Battles, Michelle Battles, Rebecca Lynn Butler (Brent) and Emily Diane Vines, and one great-grandchild, Ellington Lynn Butler. Geneva was born in Johns, Alabama where she spent most of her youth. As a young adult, Geneva travelled frequently before ultimately finding her way back home. Once home, she became employed as a server for many years at the Bright Star Restaurant in Bessemer. Geneva always prided herself on her time and dedication to the Bright Star where she made many friends and had the opportunity to meet many of the celebrities that frequented the famed restaurant. In her retirement years, Geneva kept busy by running a convenience store in Boligee, Alabama, near the banks of the Tombigbee River, where she would supply local fisherman and recreationalists with the snacks and ice needed for a day on the water. Geneva was dearly loved by her family and will be greatly missed. A celebration of her life service will be held on Thursday, January 2, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. at Bessemer Brown Service Funeral Home in Bessemer. Family and friends will be welcomed from 10:00-11:00 a.m.