COLUMBIA, Miss. — On Friday, Sept. 21, 2012, Jana Grace Ward Webb died peacefully in her sleep surrounded by her family and friends after a long battle with brain cancer. Jana was born May 9, 1970, a native of Columbia, Miss. She was an exercise physiologist and was employed by the James P. Wilmot Cancer Center at the University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, N.Y. She had worked for a number of years for River Region Health System of Vicksburg.

Jana was passionate about her patients, exercise, wake boarding and her many family and friends. She was known for her infectious laugh and her warm and constant smile.

A funeral service celebrating her life was held Tuesday, Sept. 25, 2012, at First Baptist Church of Columbia, officiated by Dr. Bryant Barnes, the Rev. Justin Knight and the Rev. Philip Thurman. The graveside service was held at Woodlawn Cemetery officiated by Mother Catherine Tatum and the Rev. Don Lum.

She is survived by her husband, Brad Webb of Baton Rouge; parents, Wayne and Norma Ward of Columbia; sister, Melanie Ward Butler of London, England; nephews, Webb Wilson of Madison and George Butler of London; nieces, Emily Robinson McGuire of Starkville, Betsy, Julie and Lucy Robinson of Hattiesburg, Sarah Robinson of Picayune and Grace Butler of London; and her in-laws, Ray and Betty Carol Robinson of Bay Springs, Miss.

The way she led her life, especially during her battle with cancer, made a difference to so many who knew her. Her family would like to honor her memory and, to that end, have established the JWW Stepping Forward Fund. We ask that you consider donating, in lieu of flowers, to a fund that will support the many areas that Jana supported so her grace and spirit will continue to make a difference. Donations can be sent c/o Brad Webb or Melanie Butler, 426 Church St., Columbia, MS 39429.