Erline Humphrey Ward, 95, of Savannah, Georgia, was called home to the Lord on October 27, 2026, with her loving husband of 71 years by her side. A native of Jenkins County, Erline was born on December 3, 1930, to the late John Samuel and Madie Mons Humphrey.

Erline graduated from Jenkins County High School and soon afterward moved to Savannah for a courtship with the love of her life, Carl Franklin Ward Sr. Their first date was an evening of dinner and dancing under the stars at the infamous Johnny Harris Restaurant, and from that night on, the two were rarely seen without the other close by. Their love story was one only seen in the movies. They left this world like they lived it, together.

Erline spent her early years working at Capital Frozen Foods. However, her most cherished role was that of a wife and mother. After 21 years of praying for a child, they were blessed with their beloved son, Carl Jr., who quickly became the apple of their eye. As a devoted homemaker, she took great pride in providing the perfect home. Her family was the center of her life. She never missed a game or an opportunity to cheer on Carl Jr. or her beloved grandchildren.

Erline was known for her beautiful smile, always accompanied by her signature pink lipstick and matching nails, her perfectly coiffed hair, and her impeccable sense of accessorizing. More importantly, she was known for her kindness. She never met a stranger.

Erline and her husband were faithful servants of Calvary Baptist Temple for more than 50 years. Her faith was an essential part of her life, and she rarely, if ever, missed a Sunday service or her beloved Sunday school class. Her devotion to the Lord and her church family was a testament to the faith she carried throughout her life.

Erline was preceded in death by her brothers, James Humphrey, Johnnie Humphrey, Will “Doagie” Humphrey, and Eugene Humphrey, and her sister, Eloise Coursey.

She leaves behind her devoted husband of 71 years, Carl Franklin Ward Sr.; her beloved son, Carl Franklin Ward Jr., and daughter-in-law, Suzanne Ward, both of Savannah, Georgia; her cherished grandchildren, Madie Ward and Carl Franklin Ward III (Trace); and many loving nieces and nephews.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the nurses, and staff at Riverview Health and Rehabilitation Center for the compassion, kindness, and care they have shown Erline and her husband, Carl. Their support during this difficult time will always be remembered with deep appreciation.

Visitation will be at 10 a.m., Saturday, November 7, 2026, at Calvary Baptist Temple followed by a Funeral Service to celebrate her life at 11 a.m. Entombment will follow in Forest Lawn Memory Gardens Mausoleum.