Cheryl Diane Fairchild Ward, a beacon of light and laughter, left the stage of life for the grand
encore in the sky on December 3, 2024, at the age of 63. Born on January 7, 1961, in Paragould,
Arkansas, Cheryl was the kind of person who entered a room and instantly became the heart
and soul of any gathering. She took her final bow in Panama City Beach, Florida, leaving behind
a legacy of joy, music, and an indomitable spirit that will be remembered by all who had the
pleasure of knowing her.
Cheryl’s early days in Marmaduke High School were just a prelude to the remarkable life she
was to lead. She was the kind of student who could light up the classroom with her friendly
demeanor, not to mention her uncanny ability to make even the most mundane school
announcements sound like a hot ticket event. Later in life she pursued and obtained her real
estate license, proving that she could sell ice to Eskimos if she put her mind to it.
Family was the cornerstone of Cheryl’s life. She was the cherished daughter of the late Ralph
and Mary Agee and A.W. Fairchild, and the beloved wife of the late John Ward. She was the
proud mother and mother-in-law to Justin and Becca Ward of Brookland, AR, and the world’s
coolest grandma to Edi and Ralph “Rafe” Ward. Her brothers, Timothy and Janice Fairchild, Brad
and Allyson Fairchild, Calvin Fairchild, and Chad and Krista Agee, along with a host of nieces and
nephews, will miss her infectious laugh and her uncanny ability to turn every family gathering
into a memorable event.
Music was Cheryl’s first love and lifelong companion. She started singing at an age when most
kids are still figuring out how to tie their shoes. With a voice that could soothe souls and
invigorate spirits, she sang with numerous bands, leaving a trail of foot-tapping, head-bobbing
fans in her wake. Concerts were her second home, and she attended them with the enthusiasm
of a teenager at their first rock show. Cheryl was definitely a people person, and her love for
music and people was a harmonious blend that resonated in every aspect of her life.
As we bid farewell to Cheryl Diane Fairchild Ward, let’s not dwell on the silence left in her
absence, but rather the symphony of memories she gifted us. She lived her life like a comedy
sketch—full of wit, impeccable timing, and the kind of laughter that echoes in your heart long
after the curtain falls. Cheryl, you may have exited stage left, but your encore will play on in the
hearts and smiles of everyone you’ve touched. Curtain call, standing ovation, and a whole lot of
love—that’s the legacy of Cheryl Diane Fairchild Ward.
Visitation will begin on Monday, December 9 at 10:30 at Mitchell Funeral Home in Paragould
with the service starting at 11:30. Interment is at the Memorial Gardens in Paragould.