Irene Faye Ward, age 77 of Morganton, a native and former resident of Watauga County, died Saturday morning, February 23, 2013 at Grace Hospital in Morganton.

Irene was born March 14, 1935 in Watauga County, a daughter of the late Edd and Hazel Tester Ward. She was a homemaker and a member of Antioch Baptist Church.

Irene is survived by two brothers, Junior Ward and wife Mildred of Zionville, and Chalmer Ward of Wilkesboro. She is also survived by two aunts, and a number of nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by one brother, James R. Tester.

Funeral services for Irene Faye Ward will be conducted Tuesday afternoon, February 26, 2013, at 2:00 o'clock, at Hampton Funeral Home Chapel. The body will lie in state, at the chapel, from 1:00 until 2:00 o'clock. Officiating will be Pastor T.J. Wilson. Burial will follow in the Don Ward Cemetery.

The family will receive friends Tuesday afternoon, from 1:00 until 2:00 o'clock, at the funeral home, prior to the service.

On-line condolences may be sent to the Ward family at www.hamptonfuneralnc.com

Hampton Funeral and Cremation Service is in charge of arrangements.