ROCKLAND — Betty L. Ward, 86, died unexpectedly July 10, 2013, at Pen Bay Medical Center in Rockport.

Born in Rockland Oct. 22, 1926, she was the daughter of Harold and Florence Whitten Kennison. Educated locally, she was a graduate of Rockland High School.

For many years Betty worked as a waitress at several area restaurants.

Later in life she was an active member of the Stella Maris community. She served on several committees, including as treasurer of the activities committee.

Her family said she lived to play Bingo. She enjoyed weekly games at St. Bernard's Catholic Church, the Elks Club and most recently at Stella Maris. Never doubting her luck, she also took great pleasure in purchasing lottery tickets. Betty was an inspiring songwriter and loved to dance.

Betty enjoyed helping others, and volunteered her time at the Salvation Army each week. She also loved shopping, especially trips to Goodwill with her friend, Gloria Whitehouse.

Predeceased by her husband, Maynard Ward in 1992; two brothers, Ronald Kennison and Harold Kennison Jr.; and her sister, Virginia Santa Maria; Betty is survived by her son, Larry Pritchard and his wife, Marsha Twombly, of Biddeford; her sisters, Becky Dyer of Rockland and Joanne Rahkonen of St. George; two sisters-in-law, Gloria Kennison of Rockland and Anne Kennison of Litchfield, N.H.; her good friend and neighbor, Gloria Whitehouse; and many nieces and nephews.

A celebration of Betty's life will be held Thursday, July 18, at 11 a.m. at Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home, 110 Limerock St. in Rockland. The Rev. Mearle Mitchell will be officiating the service. Interment will follow at Achorn Cemetery on Old County Road.

To share a memory or condolence with Betty's family, visit her Book of Memories online at Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins.