Tommy “JJ and Man” Ward

Posted on April 30, 2025

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Tommy “JJ and Man” Ward, who left this world April 25, 2025, at the age of 79. Born Nov. 1, 1945, in Boyd, Tommy lived a life dedicated to hard work, family and the great outdoors. As a long-haul truck driver, Tommy spent countless hours on the open road. He took immense pride in driving log trucks, relishing the adventures that came with every journey. His love for the land was mirrored in his passion for fishing and hunting, activities that brought him sheer joy and connected him to nature in profound ways. He loved working with Timberland Ford in Perry, where he travelled to transport cars. Above all, Tommy cherished the moments he spent with his loved ones. His children, Michelle Ward and Thomas Ward, were the light of his life, and the memories they created together will forever warm the hearts of those who knew him. Tommy believed that family was everything, and he delighted in sharing laughter, stories, and experiences that would become treasured memories. He is also survived by: his brothers and sisters, Martha Bethea, Jerry Ward (Ann), Ellen “Pumpkin” Coxwell (Jimmy) and Alice Winstead (Mike); his children, Michelle Ward (Joey), Thomas Ward (Michelle), Betty Woodall and Susie Ward; and a host of nieces, nephews, grandchildren, greatgrandchildren, and family. He is preceded in death by his parents, Tom and Maude Ward. Funeral services were held Sunday, April 27, at 2 p.m. at the Antioch Church with Brother Cricket Watson officiating, where family and friends gathered to honor and celebrate Tommy’s life. Interment followed at the Pisgah Cemetery. In this time of grief, we remember Tommy Ward not only for the life he lived but also for the love he shared with family and friends. He will be deeply missed, but his spirit will forever live on in our hearts.