Born Nov. 28, 1926, in the Corning area to the late Benjamin and Edna (Galyean) Ward, he retired after farming in the Blue Cane community for many years. His passion in life was raising cotton and for many years owning and raising horses for family and friends to ride.

He was married Jan. 1, 1947, to Geneva "Jenny" Harmon Ward, who died Dec. 23, 1999. She was the love of his life and a partner in everyday life of the farming operation.

He also was preceded in death by three brothers, Alfred, Dois and Orvel Ward, and three sisters, Silvia, Gladys Ward and Hazel Simpson.

Survivors include two children, Brenda and husband Larry Aaron of Fort Smith and Mike Ward of Dallas Texas; a brother, Vernon Ward of Poplar Bluff, Mo.; three grandchildren, Jamie Simmons of Rector, Jeni McBroom of Paragould and Andrea Carpenter of Dallas; seven great-grandchildren, Mallory, Sydney, Leah, Sam, Preston, Sophie and Garrett, and a number of friends.

A family graveside memorial service will be Friday, May 16, with Rev. Kim Bridges officiating. Irby Funeral Home of Rector is in charge of arrangements.

The family requests that memorials be made to the Rector Public Library, 121 W. Fourth St., Rector, AR 72461

Those who wish may sign the online guest register at www.irbyfuneralhome.com