“

Sally’s passion for the arts manifested early and propelled her into a career as a professional ballet dancer.

Sally B. Ward, born on April 3, 1935, departed this life on August 4, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of beauty, grace, and warmth that touched everyone who knew her.

Sally’s passion for the arts manifested early and propelled her into a career as a professional ballet dancer. Her talent, discipline, and artistry led her to teach at The Washington School of Ballet, where she shaped not only the technique but also the dreams of countless students. Among her fondest memories was teaching ballet at the White House for Caroline Kennedy—a testament to both her skill and the high regard in which she was held. Those who knew Sally will remember not just her elegance on the stage but also the gentle hand and kind encouragement she brought to her teaching.

Sally possessed an artistic eye and an innate ability to create beauty in her surroundings. Whether it was transforming her home into a serene haven or presenting herself with simple, classic grace, she inspired admiration wherever she went. Her love for flowers and beautiful gardens, for candlelit dinners, and for the pleasure of sharing a meal at a fine restaurant with loved ones, reflected her appreciation for life’s finer moments. She found joy in a good book, cherished the power of music, and delighted in the peace of her quiet environment in Saint George, Maine.

She is preceded in death by her father, Colonel Sheffield Edwards, who served in the U.S. Military and as the first Director of the Office of Security for the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA); her mother, Sarah Margaret Barber; her brother, Sheffield J. Edwards Jr.; her husbands, Robert E. O’Connor, Kennedy Schmertz, and Henry P. Ward; and her great-grandchild, Lindsey Kempton.

“

Sally possessed an artistic eye and an innate ability to create beauty in her surroundings.

Sally is survived by her daughter, Cathleen A. O’Connor; her son, Stefan K. Schmertz; and her granddaughter, Scarlett K. Schmertz.

She is also survived by her stepdaughter, Iliza Bartels, and her children, Samuel and Kiri Bartels; her stepdaughter, Carey Kempton, and her children, Carly and William Kempton; and her stepdaughter, Dea Meyer, and her children, Ian, Matthew, and Grace Meyer.

Care of Sally has been entrusted to In Their Honor Funeral and Cremation Providers.