William (Billy) Edward Ward

It is with immeasurable pleasure that I have been gifted the highest honor of writing the obituary for the greatest person I have been blessed to personally know. He is the man who set the standard for every other human being in my eyes. I am so very thankful that God allowed me to call him, “Daddy.”

William (Billy) Edward Ward (81) of Draper, VA went home to be with Jesus on Friday, September 15, 2023, at 11:11 am. He passed peacefully in his sleep surrounded by family at home. Billy entered the heavenly gates to join his loving wife of 53 years, Betsy Carmen Gregory Ward (78, Draper, VA), his parents, David Daniel Ward, and Sally Eva Ward (Pulaski, VA), his brothers, Charles Ira Ward (GA) and Melvin Curtis Ward (Pulaski, VA). He also joined his sister Violet Louise Odell Jonas (Dublin, VA) and stepdaughter, Jewel Louanne Anderson (Draper, VA).

Billy was born at home in Pulaski, VA on January 21, 1942. He served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. During his service, he was dubbed “The Ghost Runner” for his bravery and constant return from each mission he was sent on while most did not. He was awarded The Bronze Medal and received two Purple Hearts for his outstanding achievements in connection with military operations against a hostile force in The Republic of Vietnam.

Billy retired from Pulaski County Public Schools in 2006 after 30+ years of employment in the Custodial Department.

He left behind a substantial number of family members who are anxiously waiting to join him once their work on Earth is done. His son and beloved daughter in law, William (Bill) Daniel and Chrissy Dawn Ward (Draper, VA), his daughter and respected son in law, Carmen Leigh, and Christopher Joseph Haas (Elliston, VA). He was blessed with 9 grandchildren. David Duane Almarode, Christy Leigh Nester, Charles Daniel Almarode, Carmen MaKayla Holland, Ember Kylie Ward, Hunter Renee Haas, Jesalyn Rayne Ward, James Colton Haas, and Billie Elizabeth Haas. He had 6 great grandchildren, many nieces and nephews, and countless family members who loved and admired him.

There are not enough words to describe the dedication and love that my brother and I witnessed by our dad. It was displayed in everything he did. He lived a life of integrity with every word he spoke and action he took. I never heard him utter one unkind word about another living creature. He genuinely appreciated and valued all of life. He has humbly helped so many in need and would never let any living thing go hungry (especially the raccoons that shared his property). He praised God constantly and led his family in loving and serving the Lord. Nothing was ever taken for granted by him. From the home he lived in, to the sardines he loved so much, every aspect of his being was met with a kind smile and an appreciation that is a rarity in this world.

William Edward Ward will be missed every single day by countless hearts, but each day is a day closer to that precious reunion. While he will be missed, we will not grieve for we know where he is.

“Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love Him.”  (James 1:12).

Funeral Services will be held at Steven’s Funeral Home in Pulaski, VA on Monday September 25, 2023. Friends will be received at 10:00 am with the service at 11:00am. The graveside processional will be held at Draper’s Valley Presbyterian Church Cemetery.