Rev. Dr. Katherine L. Ward, an educator, musician, religious leader, and community activist, who dedicated over 55 years of committed service to the City of Oakland and the Bay Area passed peacefully on Oct. 12 at the age of 84.

Rev. Ward’s impact as an educator in the Oakland public schools positively influenced generations of families.  Teaching at Madison Junior High, McClymonds High, and Fremont High School, she developed award-winning instrumental and vocal music programs. She later served as a counselor, principal of Calvin Simmons Junior High School and Director of Professional Development in the Oakland Unified School District.

Her involvement in the community included the Oakland Symphony Advisory Board, President of Berkeley Alumnae and Oakland East Bay Alumnae Chapters of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, Marcus Foster Education Institute Board of Directors, and leadership roles in the Union of Black Episcopalians.  Her dynamic commitment to service and her unwavering support of youth were the hallmarks of her life.

Rev. Dr. Katherine Ward was preceded in death by her husband, John A. Ward.  She leaves cherished memories to her children, Kurt N. Herring, Alys C. Herring, Germaine Robinson and Dr. Carmen Ward-Sullivan; her grandchildren, Ashleigh and Courtneigh Sullivan; her chosen sisters, Carolyn W. (Elbert) Getridge and Dolores J. Ward; and her chosen daughter, Margaret Morris.

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The Celebration of Life for Rev. Dr. Katherine L. Ward will be held on Tuesday, Oct. 23, 2018, at 3:00 p.m. at Grace Cathedral, 1100 California Street, San Francisco, CA 94108.

The Delta Sigma Theta Omega Omega Ritualistic Service will take place on Wednesday, Oct. 24, 2018, at 11:00 a.m. at All Saints Episcopal Parish, 911 Dowling Blvd., San Leandro, CA 94577. The Celtic Mass and Inurnment will Immediately follow this service.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made in Rev. Ward’s memory to All Saints Episcopal Church

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