DEMOPOLIS &8212; The city and its residents said goodbye this week to a lady who took pride in her job and in enjoying life.

Dolly Speed Ward served her community, family and friends diligently and kept smiles on the faces of those around her. Ward died July 28, 2007, at Woodhaven Manor Nursing Home. Funeral services were held Monday at Demopolis United Methodist Church.

Ward, a Demopolis native, was known by many as the &8220;lady in the know&8221; around the community. She served as city clerk for 22 years. She began working in city hall under Mayor Ed Bailey and was appointed clerk following the retirement of Dotty Partridge. Ward followed in the footsteps of her father, M.C. Speed, who was also a servant of the city, serving as fire chief.

Jimbo Ward, Dolly&8217;s oldest son, said his mother took her job personally.

Jimbo recalled citizens calling his mother at their home about city business.

Tom Boggs, a former city councilman who worked with Ward during his term, said she kept city hall organized.

Ola &8220;Chug&8221; Pruitt, a lifelong friend of Ward, said Ward was committed to being successful.

Caldwell said that not only did Ward do a lot of good things for the city but she also did a lot of good things for its people.

Boggs said, &8220;Dolly Ward saw humor in everything. She was so funny.&8221;

Jimbo said his mother was a people-person.

Jimbo said his mother was the type of mom children enjoyed talking to.

Jimbo said his mother enjoyed life and was socially active in the community, even throughout her later years.

Ward was a long-time member of the dance club, Jimbo said.

During Ward&8217;s time in assisted living and the nursing home, she continued to socialize attending the Friendship Club meeting at the Methodist church, receiving a ride to the meetings with Irene Fitzgerald and Polly Dinning every Monday, Jimbo said.

Pruitt said Ward lived her life with enjoyment and loved people.