David E. Ward

David E. Ward obituary

David E. Ward

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Aug

23

Visitation

11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Morton and Johnston Funeral Home

410 S. Main Street, Benton, IL 62812

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Aug

23

Funeral service

1:00 p.m.

Morton and Johnston Funeral Home

410 S. Main Street, Benton, IL 62812

Send Flowers

Only 16 hours left for delivery to next service.

David Ward Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Morton and Johnston Funeral Home on Aug. 21, 2025.

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David E. Ward, 76, of Johnston City, IL and a former Franklin County resident passed away on Monday morning, August 18, 2025 at Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital in Houston, Texas.

He was born in DuQuoin, IL on September 16, 1948, the son of Mack Edgar & Margaret Murrena (Beard) Ward.

David married Candy (Acord) on July 8, 1984.

David was a Veteran, serving in the U.S. Marines. He was awarded the Purple Heart after being wounded in Vietnam. After being discharged he was also awarded the Navy Commendation Medal for combat heroism. He spent a lot of time underground, working in the Coal Mines for over 20 years. He was an avid Coon Hunter, working with the youth and auctions that were held encouraging young hunters.

Mr. Ward is survived by his:

Wife: Candy Ward of Johnston City, IL

Daughter: Heather Smith & husband Brandon of Cypress, TX

2 Brothers:
Harold Ward & wife Patricia
Dale Ward & wife Vicki of Akin

2 Sisters-in-law:
Reiko Ward of Bremerton, Washington
Sandra Ward of Tamaroa

He is also survived by several Nieces & Nephews who all loved David very much.

Mr. Ward was preceded in death by his Parents and 2 older Brothers: Kenneth Ward & Ronald Ward.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 P.M. on Saturday, August 23rd at the Morton & Johnston Funeral Home in Benton with Rev. Dan Whitfield (retired) officiating. Burial will be in the Old DuQuoin Cemetery in DuQuoin. Visitation will be from 11:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. on Saturday at the funeral home.

For more information or to send online condolences please visit www.mortonjohnstonfuneralhome.com

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of David E. Ward, please visit our floral store.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

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Yesterday

Morgan Ward posted to the memorial.

August 21, 2025

Morton and Johnston Funeral Home announced events.

August 21, 2025

Morton and Johnston Funeral Home posted an obituary.

1 Entry

Morgan Ward

Yesterday

He was such a great uncle, always made me laugh and would want me to call him my "Favorite Uncle". He made all the family gathering a time to remember with funny jokes and great stories. I always hold in my memories the time he got me a beagle, to replace the one that passed away. Also looking to keep us kids out side enjoying the outdoors. I will also cherish the times long ago when I was allowed to go hunting with him, Ronnie and my dad. His family lost a great man, America lost a great Marine and I lost my Favorite Uncle. My condolences Candy and Heather.

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Upcoming Events

Aug

23

Visitation

11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Morton and Johnston Funeral Home

410 S. Main Street, Benton, IL 62812

Send Flowers

Aug

23

Funeral service

1:00 p.m.

Morton and Johnston Funeral Home

410 S. Main Street, Benton, IL 62812

Send Flowers

Only 16 hours left for delivery to next service.