Visitation:
Saturday, January 11, 2025
10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m.
Grace Methodist Church
Willard, Ohio
Service:
Saturday, January 11, 2025
12:00 p.m.
Grace Methodist Church
Willard, Ohio
Beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, Leora “Lee Ann” Jump Ward passed away on January 5, 2025. She was born on July 16, 1956 in Willard, Ohio to the late Harry and Leora (Jacobs) Jump.
Survived by husband, John, son Mike (Corrinne), and daughters Maggie (Max) Dragony and Kathy (Jason) Govia. Her five granddaughters, Maren, Ellie, Flora, Mae Leora, and Wendy were the joy of her life, and she spent her years following retirement helping care for them. Also surviving are her brother, David (Marsha) Jump, and sister Deborah (David) Harwood, sisters-in-law, Sandy Jump and Shari Jump; mother and father-in-law, John and Elaine Ward; sisters-in-law, Dawn (Ed) Durica and Judi (Jeff) Greaver, as well as many adored nieces and nephews.
Preceding her in death were her parents, Harry and Leora Jump, and her brothers, Jim and Mike Jump.
Her warmth, humor, and intelligence touched everyone she met. She graduated from Willard High School in 1974 and stayed close to many dear friends throughout her life. A graduate of The Ohio State University for undergrad and law school, she proudly worked for The Supreme Court of Ohio for over 21 years, ending her tenure as the Director of Bar Admissions. She will be missed dearly by her family and friends.
Calling hours will be at Grace Methodist Church in Willard, Ohio on Saturday, January 11, 2025 from 10:00 a.m. until the start of her funeral service at 12:00 p.m. with Pastor Mike Leonard officiating. Burial will follow at Maple Grove Cemetery in New Haven, Ohio. Online condolences can be made to Lee Ann’s family by visiting www.secorfuneralhomes.com
Condolences
Diane (Hastings) Dryer - Jan 22, 2025
Dear David, Debbie and families, I was very saddened to hear of Lee Ann's passing. She was so bright and engaging as a student in my classroom. Reading all the tributes about her, it is apparent she continued to achieve a good life for herself plus enriching the lives of those who came into contact with her. Please accept my heartfelt sympathy for your loss.
Dick and Phyllis Quinn - Jan 11, 2025
Debbie, Dr. Jump and the entire family: Our condolences to you all. Lee Ann lived a good life and was as all of you have been (and continue to be) one who made the world a better place. Wendy always kept us updated, so we know that Lee Ann faced her battle with cancer with determination and resolve. She continued to set a good example for all of us. Thanks to our Lord Jesus, we know that the reunion in Heaven will be one of unspeakable joy. - Dick & Phyllis Quinn
Chuck Watts - Jan 10, 2025
One day last summer, I was fortunate enough to join Lee Ann and some other friends for lunch. I was aware of the health challenges she'd been facing but I was amazed at her positive attitude. Despite the bleak outlook, she maintained her warm, cheerful demeanor. The same disposition she had when I first met her all those years ago at OSU. I wish life would have allowed all of us more time to get together. Godspeed Lee.
Susan Christoff - Jan 10, 2025
Lee Ann was a wonderful colleague and friend. Her sense of fairness and justice was unsurpassed. Lee Ann didn’t seek attention or praise for herself but rather sought only to do what was right. She treated with respect and dignity everyone with whom she came in contact. She was my “True North” and I relied on her judgment and wisdom to get me through many difficult decisions and situations. Lee Ann will be sorely missed by all her friends and colleagues. My heart goes out to John and their precious children and grandchildren on their profound loss.
Christine - Jan 10, 2025
Lee Ann was a truly compassionate person. I had the privilege of working alongside her for more than a decade in the Office of Bar Admissions. Her joy for others' achievements was always so palpable. She possessed a remarkable kindness that touched everyone around her. I still remember how she shared in my excitement when my grandchildren were born; it was such a precious moment. Her genuine enthusiasm for my acceptance of a new position at the court remains one of my most cherished memories. In that moment, she hugged me tightly, tears in her eyes, and it was clear how deeply she cared. My deepest condolences go out to her family.
Rosey - Jan 10, 2025
My manager, my mentor and above all, my friend, I am so saddened by this profound loss. Your strength, warmth and gregarious spirit will always be with me. God bless your family and friends. Cheers to you until we meet again, my friend.
Ruth Bope - Jan 9, 2025
My condolences to Lee's family. I met her when I worked at the court. Her good works at the court will long be remembered and appreciated.
Jill Winn - Jan 9, 2025
Lee Ann was always a delight to work with at the Supreme Court. Rest in peace.
Tiffany - Jan 9, 2025
I am deeply saddened to hear about Lee Ann. She was not only a boss but was also a mentor and a friend. I learned so much from her during our time together. One thing that was evident was the love she had for her family. She talked often and fondly of John, Mike, Maggie, Kathy, the grandkids and Peanut. She will be missed. My thoughts and prayers to her family and friends.
Elizabeth A. - Jan 9, 2025
I worked with Lee Ann in the Office of Bar Admissions for about a year and a half before she retired. It was evident that she truly cared for staff, board members, and every single bar applicant. She spoke so often of her family and how proud she was of each of her children. I remember how thrilled she was when she found out she was going to be a grandmother. My condolences to Lee Ann's family and friends.
Sherry Long - Jan 9, 2025
Doc, Deb and family.. So sorry to read of your loss. No matter who or what age, it is always difficult.
- Jan 8, 2025
We are so sorry for your loss. Sending prayers for comfort during this time.
Todd - Jan 8, 2025
I had the pleasure of working with Lee Ann for many years while serving on the Bar Admissions Board. She was the steady hand that helped guide the Board through many difficult cases. Lee Ann was both a mentor and friend to me. She will be deeply missed.
Joseph Weiss - Jan 8, 2025
Joseph H. Weiss, Jr, Attorney I recently talked with a young lawyer who Lee Ann interviewed at Cleveland Marshall Law School in preparation for the Bar Examine 10 years ago. He had a question to ask her about his past, they met and he explained his question to her. She quickly answered with “Don’t worry about it.” Her answer was quick and put his worries to rest. He still remembers this today. This best describes Lee Ann, quick and to the point and always helpful. I am sorry that I never got to tell her this story, John, you will continue to be in my prayers each morning.
Michael - Jan 8, 2025
I am one of the bar examiners who worked with Lee Ann for many years. She and I typically met with law students at Cleveland State to help them prep for the exam. She was always professional, but also kind and encouraging. I am so sorry she passed so young and extend condolences to her family.
Marilyn - Jan 8, 2025
I am so sorry to learn of her passing. Such a wonderful woman whose intelligence, sense of humor and life was a blessing to all! May sweet memories bring you some comfort at this difficult time. God bless!
Steve - Jan 8, 2025
A dedicated employee, a trusted colleague, a loyal soul. Always guided by doing right, and not in pleasing the ego of others. I'll never forget your laugh, your commitment to fairness, nor, sadly, your grief the day we lost our chief. Wishing you a gentle peace, with blessings upon you and yours.
Paul and Pam (Jump) King - Jan 8, 2025
We were so shocked to hear of "Leegy's" passing. I have happy memories of her as a little girl in the Jump clan when we all got together at Grammie's house on Sundays. Our thoughts and prayers are with her extended family and circle of friends.
Joan and Tom Etter - Jan 8, 2025
So sorry for your loss. I know we saw each other more when the kids were in school, but I will always think of her as a kind, laid back and funny person. Prayers and thoughts for the whole family. Joan and Tom Etter
Allan Staub - Jan 8, 2025
So many memories of Lee Anne over the many years. I will remember this terrific picture of Lee.
Minerva - Jan 7, 2025
I am so very sorry for your loss. Lee Ann was my boss when I worked in Bar Admissions. She was also a mentor and a friend. If you were among the 14,332 applicants who took the Ohio Bar Exam from 2008 to 2017, you’ll likely never forget the moment Lee Ann Ward’s calm, steady voice announced, “Time is up. Put your pencils down.” And if you were one of the 11,590 who proudly walked across the stage to be sworn in as an attorney, she was likely the one to announce your name as you took that life-changing step. As the Director of Bar Admissions, Lee Ann was the heart of the process that launched many legal careers. Lee Ann administered 19 bar exams, stepping aside for just one in July 2010—when her daughter Maggie took and passed the exam. Lee Ann had a gift for making even the most stressful days a little lighter. Her warm presence, quick wit, and sense of humor were a source of comfort and joy. I can still hear her voice so vividly in my mind. Though she read thousands of names during her career, she practiced "Margaret Deborah Ward" over and over to make sure she could say it without crying. That day, she wasn’t just an administrator—she was a proud mom, sharing in one of the happiest moments of her life. Rest well, Lee Ann. You touched so many lives, and your kindness will be missed more than words can ever say.
Cynthia Lewellen Branham - Jan 7, 2025
I was so very sorry to hear of Lee Ann's passing. I lived on Ash St and was best friends with her cousin, so "Leegie" (as we called her) was a part of my young life although I am 3 years older. We reconnected on Facebook and I know the love she had for her children and grandchildren. She sent me a very kind message when my husband passed in Sept. 24. My sincere condolences to her family and extended family. I pray for comfort and peace for you. RIP Lee Ann. You will be missed.