HOMOSASSA, FLORIDA — Elaine M. Ward, 74, of Homosassa, Fla., passed away on Sunday, Aug. 10, 2014, at Oak Hill Hospital, Brooksville, Fla.

A native of Portland, Maine, she was born Sept. 5, 1939, to John and Helen (Graffam) Ashley, one of four children.

Mrs. Ward was a secretary for Dielectric in Maine for 30 years, and moved to Homosassa 13 years ago from Naples, Maine.

Elaine is survived by her husband of 45 years, Arthur J. Ward, of Homosassa, Fla.; stepchildren Terry, Ivy, Tina, Darcy, Wanda, Robin and Kelly; siblings David Ashley (Gloria), Rio Rancho, N.M.; Carol Ashley, Homosassa, Fla., and Sharon Staley (Robert), Sanford, Maine; and many grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, please make memorial contributions in Elaine's name to either the American Heart Association or the American Lung Association.

Arrangements by Wilder Funeral Home, Homosassa, Florida. www.wilderfuneral.com