Joe Roy Ward, Jr.

Retired US Air Force TSgt. Joe Roy Ward, Jr., a dedicated veteran, loving family man, and committed community servant, passed away on May 10, 2026, at Womack Army Medical Center. Born on August 29, 1950, in Peter's Creek, North Carolina, Joe lived a life marked by service, devotion, and a passion for family and country.

Joe’s distinguished military career spanned 21 years in the United States Air Force, during which he served primarily on B-52 and B-1 bombers. His commitment and expertise earned him the rank of Technical Sergeant, and he ultimately retired in 1991 at McConnell Air Force Base in Kansas. His pride in his military service was evident throughout his life, as were the numerous honors he received for his dedication to duty.

Following his retirement from active military service, Joe continued his tradition of contributing to the welfare of others by working with the Civilian Emergency Response Team (CERT) and the Red Cross. His desire to help and protect those around him also found expression in his role as a master mechanic at Flow Mazda, where he applied his technical skills with precision and care.

Joe’s personal interests reflected a love for speed and competition, most notably his enthusiasm for NASCAR. He delighted in watching races both on television and live, always cheering fervently for his all-time favorite, Dale Earnhardt.

Family was the cornerstone of Joe’s life. He shared 56 cherished years of marriage with his devoted wife, Kathleen Ward. Together, they nurtured a beautiful family, including their daughter Jessica McWhorter and her husband Allen, and their son Joseph Ward and his wife Alicia, who reside in Concord, North Carolina. Joe was a proud and loving grandfather to five grandchildren—Justice "Bubba", Cierra "CC", Ajayy "his Car Guy", Connor "his Eagle Scout", and Mila "his garden Buddy"—and celebrated the joy of three great-grandchildren: Ruby, Luca, and one more on the way. His role as “Papa” was a source of immense pride and happiness.

Joe was also a beloved brother to Katherine McNeely and her husband Jimmy of Stanley, North Carolina, and James Ward of Fayetteville, North Carolina. His extended family remembers him with affection and respect. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joe Ward, Sr. and Anna Ward, and his sister, Sue Autry, whose memories he carried close to his heart.

Throughout his life, Joe Roy Ward, Jr. exemplified dedication—not only in service to his country but also in the unwavering support and pride he had in his family's accomplishments. His legacy is one of honor, kindness, and resolute commitment to those he loved and served.

He will be deeply missed by his surviving family and all who had the privilege of knowing him. Joe’s memory endures in the hearts of those he touched, a testament to a life well lived with honor and grace.