In Loving Memory of Joseph Francis Ward
On a spring day in Philadelphia, PA, on March 24, 1959, the world was graced with the birth of Joseph Francis Ward, affectionately known as Joe, the cherished son of Marie and Joseph Vincent Ward. Joe's journey, woven with resilience and love, drew to a peaceful close at his home on February 29, 2024, after bravely facing heart failure and other health challenges.
Joe's early years were marked by adversity, losing his beloved parents by the young age of thirteen. Joe and his siblings Diane, Matthew, and Vincent found a new home in Hampton, VA, with Aunt Cecilia Ryan. Joe's remarkable strength and character were nurtured here while he formed lifelong friendships that he treasured deeply.
A proud Peninsula Catholic High School graduate in 1977, Joe's professional life was a testament to his relentless work ethic. His mechanical prowess was legendary, leading to a food and beverage manufacturing career. Joe often tinkered with his cars, including his Volkswagen Beetles and his former 1970 Chevelle SS. Joe's true legacy was not in his professional achievements but in the love he brought to his home and family.
In 1980, Joe married his high school sweetheart, Loretta Petty. Together, they created a loving home for their five children: Eileen, Jennifer, Jackie, Joseph, and Sara. The family faced immense sorrow with the loss of Jackie and Joseph in 2004 and 2005, yet Joe's unwavering love and dedication as a father remained his proudest achievement and source of joy.
Joe’s bright blue eyes sparkled the most when surrounded by his family and friends. His knack for starting meaningful conversations just as visitors were walking out the door, often prefaced with "thanks for stopping by,” will be fondly remembered. He always showed genuine interest and offered wisdom to those he cared about, keeping his own challenges close to his heart. He left a lasting impression with his advice on finding joy and stability in both work and life and his encouragement to stand up for oneself. Conversations with Joe were peppered with his unique phrases; he had a special way of communicating, often with just a facial expression, noise, sigh, or gesture that said it all. His playful question to his kids, "Who's the man?" to which they'd reply, "You are, Dad," will be cherished forever.
Known for his dry wit, humor, and strong opinions, Joe was a big personality in every sense. His love for random facts was as vast as his memory, he never missed a beat at Jeopardy. An avid sports fan, Joe was a passionate fan of the Phillies and Eagles, which he both loved and hated as only a true Philadelphia fan can. He was more than just a spectator; he loved playing sports, embodying a spirited drive that inspired many. He spent countless hours at ball fields, coaching, watching games, or playing catch. He was known for his driving "shortcuts" that didn't necessarily save time but created memories and his oil changes that turned into all-day car care sessions. Joe's presence was always larger than life.
Joe leaves behind a host of relatives and friends who will hold him dear in their hearts. Joe's legacy continues through his family, including his wife Loretta Ward, children Eileen Bunn (Aaron Bunn), Jennifer Ward (Hakim Christopher Turner), and Sara Ward (Robert Urquhart), and his grandchildren Aaron Joseph, Francis Joseph, and Penelope Jacqueline Bunn. His siblings, Diane Kruszewski (Michael Kruszewski), Matthew (Julie Ward), and Vincent (Amy Ward), remember him fondly as their loving brother.
We invite you to join us in celebrating Joe's extraordinary life at R. Hayden Smith Funeral Home at 245 South Armistead Avenue, Hampton, VA, on Saturday, March 9, 2024, at 3:00 pm. Memorial contributions can be made to the American Heart Association - Hampton Roads Chapter, by CLICKING HERE.
Joe, husband, dad, pop-pop, brother, and friend, you will be forever loved and deeply missed.
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