Corey James Ward

Mr. Corey Ward, a beloved son, father, and local basketball legend, passed away Saturday, July 26, 2025, at the age of 54. Known as much for his towering presence on the court as for his humble heart off of it, Corey left an unforgettable mark on everyone who knew him.

Born on August 17, 1970, in Saginaw, Michigan, Corey picked up a basketball at the age of 2 and never put it down. From shooting hoops at Vets Park to being a standout athlete at Nouvel High School, where he was instrumental in back-to-back championships in 1987 and 1988. Known as “Baby Barkley”, Corey was a hometown hero long before he played college ball! Though he never pursued a professional career, Corey was a fixture in city leagues, Moneyball Pro-Am, community tournaments, and games at Sexton and Pattengill, where he mentored young athletes and reminded everyone why they loved the game. When he was the announcer, he would be on the mic talking crazy about players that weren’t hooping good!!! Corey could talk some smack!

Beyond basketball, Corey was an exceptional Barber and a dedicated community advocate. He coached youth teams and always made time to encourage kids to chase their dreams—on and off the court. His charisma, warmth, humor, and integrity earned him deep respect across generations.

Even though Corey lived in the State of Michigan, he was a diehard Dallas Cowboys fan! Corey caught a lot of flak from the Detroit Lions fans, but he was always ready to defend his Cowboys. He was a loyal fan to the end.

Corey lived his life on his own terms, which he demonstrated by trying to pop willies on his Amigo scooter. Strolling through the streets of Saginaw, Corey felt independent, joyous, and free. (Even though he scared the hell out of his Mother!!!).

Corey is survived by his three sons, Tyson (Marisa) Ward, Branard Lewis-Dean and Brandon Walker; his loving and dedicated mother and father, Connie (Eugene) Plowden and Leroy Ward Jr.; two brothers, Felton (Dee Dee) Ward and Terreance Plowden; two sisters, Tamara (Paul) Myles and Takeisha Plowden; three beloved grandchildren, Hayze, and Tatym Ward and Demarcus Skinner; god-parents, Von (Rose) Nickleberry and Dorothy Burns; goddaughter, Jarmice Barnes Laury; godson, Deonte “Quick” Laury who affectionately called Corey “Sugga”; godsister, Margaret Layton, and countless friends including Charles Williams Jr., Terry Hodges, Raymond “Pike” Carruthers, Mike “Diezel” Ward, Rodney Bragg, Tanner Robinson, Dean Willis, Terrell Thornton, Johnel Davis, Edwin Jones, Eric Jones, Santana Daughtery, Derek Gordon, Paul Leek, Link Chrysler; many nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives and friends which were too many too mention, who loved him dearly.

Corey was preceded in death by his grandparents, James and Betty "Grammy" Watson, and his best friends, Mike Madison and Corey Phillips (RIP).

The family would like to express special thanks to Darlean Donald and Ivan E. Phillips and the Staff of Paradise Funeral Chapel, AFC, for the loving care they have shown towards Corey throughout the years, Dr. Ashley Gardner and Staff at Gamez Community Health Center, and Pastor Roy L. Manning and the Corinthian Baptist Church Family.