Marlene Fitch Ward, age 67, of Thelma, passed away Friday evening, April 3, 2026, at the University of Kentucky Hospital in Lexington.

She was born on May 31, 1958, in Paintsville to the late Arvil and Pauline Picklesimer Fitch. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by one sister: Stacy Lynn Fitch El Harrab.

On May 26, 1978, in Meally, she married Jerry Lee Ward, who survives. Additional survivors include one daughter, Lora Marie Ward of Thelma; one brother, Jimmy (Sonya) Fitch of Lowmansville; her twin sister, Dalene Fitch (Timmy) Caudill of Meally; and two special nephews: Jakobi Stambaugh and Adam El Harrab.

Funeral Services are scheduled for 1 P.M. on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at the First Christian Church of Paintsville, with Ben Stephens officiating. Burial will follow at the Fitch Family Cemetery at Meally. Friends may visit at the Jones-Preston Funeral Home from 5 P.M. until 8 P.M. on Monday, April 6, 2026, and on Tuesday from 11 A.M. until the time of the funeral services at 1 P.M. at the church.

Jones-Preston Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

Jones-Preston Funeral Home is both honored and privileged to be entrusted with all final arrangements for Mrs. Marlene Fitch Ward.