Ethel May (LaBarge) Ward, 88 of Cherry Tree, PA, passed away on Friday, March 20, 2026, at her home surrounded by her loving family.
She was the daughter of Sylvester G. and Geraldine M. (Gardiner) LaBarge, born May 10, 1937, in Massena, New York.
Ethel went to school in Rome, NY and Massena, NY. She worked in the health field for many years as a CNA and therapy assistant. Ethel went to work for Greenwich Coal Co as one of a handful of women miners. She enjoyed crocheting, gorillas, birds and going to the casinos, and playing cards with her siblings. She loved spending time with her family.
She is survived by her five children, Debbria Strong, Cherry Tree, Penny Twigg, Strongstown, Richard Ward II, Cherry Tree, Gary R. Ward, Cherry Tree, Tammy L. Ward (Mike Hess), Cherry Tree, three brothers, Sylvester G. LaBarge (Keitha), Gary R. LaBarge (Sheri), William M. LaBarge (Phyllis), six grandchildren, Michael L. Lydic (Brandi), Len M. Lydic, (Tiffy), C. J. Stein (Robert), Marcia L. Fridley (Ronald), Ronnie S. Henry, Cindee M. Stephenson, numerous great-grandchildren and one great-great-granddaughter and numerous nieces and nephews.
Ethel was preceded in death by her parents, one son, Terry G. Elliott, three sisters, Ida Carmen, Barbara Bruce, Cindy Beckwith, brother, Elwood (Peanut) LaBarge.
A memorial service will be planned for at a later date. The McCabe~Roof Funeral Home, 565 Franklin St. Clymer is assisting the Ward family.
Online condolences may be made at www.mccaberooffh.com.
