Ethel Irene Wardman

Ethel Irene Wardman, 97, of Wampum passed away Friday, December 14, 2018 at the Avalon Nursing Center.

Born March 14, 1921 in Wampum, she was the daughter of the late William A. and Icle Brown. She was married to Merle “Bud” Wardman for 49 years when he passed away January 26, 1991. Together, they fostered over 300 children from Lawrence County Child Welfare.

Ethel had a long and varied career, starting at the age of fourteen. She worked in childcare, worked as a crossing guard, manager in retail, country singer on the radio and traveling with a small group of musicians. She was a member of the Chewton Christian Church. She enjoyed spending time with her family, friends, and beloved dog, Angel.

Survivors include her son, Gary “Rocky” (Sandy) Wardman, grandchildren, Jodie (Tracy) Clemens, great grandchildren, Cody and Samantha; former foster child, Jeffrey Kinney, adopted daughter, Ashleigh Wardman and her children, Dominick, Taylor, and Randy; foster son, Russell (Robin) Wardman and his children, Laura, Katelyn, Nicholas, and Caitlin; and foster son, Ronald Fowler and his children, Amber, Andrew, and Aaron. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and son Larry “Duke” Wardman and grandchildren, Mark Lee, and Mikalee Wardman as well as her beloved brother, Dale Brown.

Per Ethel’s request, no services will be held at this time. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Lawrence County Child Welfare, Wampum Police Department, or the Chewton Christian Church

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Marshall Funeral Home, Wampum. Online condolences may be sent to marshallsfh.com.