Matilda Mae Ward-Brown of Daytona Beach, FL has gone home, leaving behind a circle of those who loved her.
These are some of the moments and memories that shaped her story.
Some bonds are not loosened by absence.
Matilda Mae Ward-Brown, a faithful Christian, devoted family member, and treasured friend, entered eternal rest on April 23, 2026, in Daytona Beach, Florida, at the age of 73.
She was born on October 7, 1952, in Summerfield, Florida, and throughout her life she carried with her the values of faith, dignity, grace, and perseverance. Matilda was known as a woman who lived with purpose and compassion, and those who knew her will remember her as faith-filled, selfless, and loving. Her life reflected a steady devotion to God, to her family, and to the many communities she served with humility and joy.
Matilda received her early education as a graduate of Lake Weir High School class of 1970, and later continued her studies at the Bible Institute of Ormond Beach. She also pursued training at Modeling School in Chicago, Illinois, and earned a graduation degree from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago's Department of Fashion Design. Her education reflected both her discipline and her creative spirit, and she carried those gifts into every season of her life.
Her professional journey was as varied as it was meaningful. Matilda was a certified owner of a home health company, and she also owned a floral company. In addition, she worked in banking, insurance, paralegal services, and wedding consulting. Her work demonstrated not only her versatility and skill, but also her commitment to excellence and service. She approached each role with care, professionalism, and a sincere desire to help others.
Matilda was a devoted member of Emmanuel International Church, where she served faithfully in many capacities. She was a member of the Ministerial Team, Trustee Emeritus, and an active participant in the Hospitality Ministry. She also served as past President of the Roses of Sharon Women's Ministry and contributed through the Worship Team, Decoration Team, and Greeter Ministry. Her church family knew her as a dependable servant leader whose presence brought warmth, order, and encouragement. She also traveled and assisted the late Right Reverend Delores Ward, and her service extended beyond the local church as she modeled in the Caribbean Islands, Chicago, New York, and Atlanta. Her life was a beautiful example of faith in action.
Matilda found joy in many of life's simple and meaningful pleasures. She enjoyed fishing, traveling, shopping, dining out, gardening, singing, and interior decorating. These interests reflected her appreciation for beauty, fellowship, and the quiet joys of everyday living. She had a natural eye for style and a gracious spirit that made her presence memorable wherever she went.
She leaves to cherish her memory are her siblings, Wallace Ward (Martha), Dr. H. Janet Slater (Charles), George Ward (late Delores), Avis Ward, Shenela Ward-Still (late Alvin), Dennis Nash (Fleeter), Donna Anderson, Char Lacey, and Tooshdi Lacey, special sisters Elder Elsie Thomas and Bishop Mae Chester. She is also survived by her sister-in-law Georgia Ann Howard, her brother-in-law Habib Thompson, and her godchildren Chassidy Wilson, Zondrey Sesler, and Uzziah Jeremiah Brown. She also leaves a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will continue to hold her close in their hearts.
Matilda's life was a blessing to all who encountered her. She gave generously of herself, loved deeply, and served faithfully. Her legacy will live on in the lives she touched through her kindness, her ministry, her work, and her unwavering devotion to God and family. As Maya Angelou so beautifully wrote, "People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." Matilda Mae Ward-Brown made others feel valued, welcomed, and loved, and that gift will never be forgotten.
Though her earthly journey has ended, her memory remains a source of comfort and inspiration. She will be remembered for her strength, her elegance, her service, and her steadfast faith. Her life was a testimony to grace, and her influence will continue to shine through the many lives she blessed.
In lieu of flowers please make a donation to Emmanuel International Church of Ormond Beach
Contact Elder George Ward, Senior Pastor
54 South Ridgewood Avenue, Ormond Beach, FL 32174
(386) 527-3759
