Jean Marie

Kurz

Jean Duggan Ward Kurz passed away peacefully on November 9, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family. Born on February 13, 1946, in St. Louis, Missouri, Jean lived a life marked by dedication to others, a sharp wit, and a deeply caring spirit.

Jean began her career as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in North St. Louis at St. Mary’s Hospital. After moving to Springfield, Missouri, she poured her heart into staying home and raising her family. Following the tragic passing of her husband, Don, Jean returned to the medical field, eventually retiring from CoxHealth.

Those who knew Jean best will remember her quick sense of humor and her generous heart. Life brought significant challenges—including the heartbreaking loss of her husband at a young age and navigating life without the person she expected to grow old alongside. Yet, through every chapter, she built deep, lasting relationships, remaining blessed with devoted friends and neighbors who showed up for her without fail. She also loved her dogs, Bella and Kasey - even though she would often tell you otherwise, it was with good humor and genuine love for them.

Jean’s family wishes to express their profound, heartfelt gratitude to the dear friends, neighbors, and community members who surrounded Jean and supported her family so endlessly over the last six months. Their constant presence, acts of kindness, and willingness to step up brought immense comfort, peace of mind, and strength during a long and complex journey.

Jean was preceded in death by her husband, Donald Lee Ward; her father, Leo P. Duggan; her mother, Jean C. Becker; and her stepfather, Arthur Becker.

She is survived by her loving daughters, Laura Ward of Dallas, Texas, and Karen Sommerfeld of Costa Rica. She leaves behind four cherished grandchildren: Meghan Kurz Jones (Brett) of Monroe, Louisiana; Benjamin Brake (Kelsey) of Festus, Missouri; Alex Brake (Allison) of Enid, Oklahoma; and Finley Sommerfeld of Springfield, Missouri; as well as four great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her dear friend and partner, Steve White, of Springfield, Missouri.

Following her diagnosis with dementia, Jean was supported by extraordinary caregivers. Her family extends their deepest gratitude to the staff at The Fremont Memory Care, whose grace, love, and deep care were evident every single day in the final months of her life. Special thanks are also extended to the staff of Gentiva Hospice in Springfield for their tender care and guidance in helping the family navigate her final days. The staff of both organizations sustained us during the last months of her life. We would also like to thank the gang of dear friends who regularly visited, cared for her, and made her laugh.

Jean will be laid to rest next to her beloved husband, Don, at Hazelwood Cemetery in Springfield, Missouri.

A visitation will be held at Gorman Scharpf Funeral Home in Springfield, MO on Saturday, November 14, 2026, from 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm. A gathering of friends and family will be held at Big Whiskey’s on Battlefield Road from 4:30 - 7:30.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project or The Library Foundation of the Springfield-Greene County Library.