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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. Though the world feels a little less radiant without her, the memories she created—so vividly cherished by family and friends—will endure as lasting reminders of a remarkable woman.

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.

Her life was one marked by meaningful relationships. Sally’s memory is carried forward with love by her daughter Cathleen A. O’Connor and her son Stefan K. Schmertz. Her granddaughter Scarlett K. Schmertz and stepdaughter Iliza S. Bartels remember her with gratitude and affection, as do Samuel and Kiri Bartels, her cherished grandchildren. The family circle widens to embrace stepdaughters Carey Kempton and Dea Meyer, along with grandchildren Carly, William, Ian, Matthew, and Grace—each one touched by Sally’s kindness and gentleness.

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

Sally’s journey has now brought her back to the embrace of those who have gone before her: her beloved parents, Colonel Sheffield Edwards and Sarah Margaret Barber, her brother Sheffield J. Edwards Jr., and her dearly missed husbands, Robert E. O’Connor, Kenndy Schmertz, and Henry P. Ward. She is also reunited with her grandchild Lindsey Kempton, whose presence she held close to her heart.

In each chapter of her life—from the rigor and grace of ballet to the quiet joys of Maine—Sally B. Ward shared something beautiful with the world. Her light lives on in the hearts of her family and the many students and friends whose lives she touched. Though she will be missed beyond measure, her legacy of artistry, kindness, and elegance remains an enduring gift to all who knew her.

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