NANCY JEAN ALWARD God saw her getting tired, and a cure was not to be. So He put His arms around her and whispered, "come to me." With tearful eyes we watched her suffer and saw her fade away. Although we loved her dearly, we could not make her stay. A golden heart stopped beating, hardworking, hands to rest. God broke our hearts to prove to us He only takes the best. (Author Unknown) "We will miss you every day." Nancy Alward, 59, died January 6, 2000. She was born in Santa Maria, California, and had been an area resident for over 40 years. Nancy worked for the State of Washington DSHS, as a social worker for more than 18 years until her health prevented her from working. Nancy is survived by daughters, Jeannette Martin, Tacoma, Joan Hathaway, University Place; sister, Judie Altizer, Seattle; grandchildren, Sarah Wallace, Jennifer Martin, Melanie Hathaway, Alex Hathaway; great-grandson, Tyler Wallace; former husband and dear friend, Ray Alward; aunt, Helen Lawrence, California, and numerous dear friends who were so very supportive during her illness. Funeral services will be held Saturday, January 15, 2000, 11:00 am, Calvary Cloisters Chapel. Rosary will be recited Friday, January 14, 2000, 7:00 pm, at the 1002 So. Yakima Ave Chapel. Interment Calvary Cemetery. Arrangements by Gaffney Cassedy Allen & Buckley King Funeral Home. Pub Date: 1/12/2000 Tacoma News Tribune