Evg. Billy Ward

With heavy hearts, we announce the transition of Evangelist Billy Winston Ward to his eternal Heavenly Home on Tuesday, March 17, 2026. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, son and faithful servant of Jesus Christ. Born February 21, 1957, he was the son of Olga "Vicki" Cromer Ward of Richlands, VA and the late Lloyd Thomas Ward.

Bro. Billy lived a life marked by unwavering faith, bold obedience, and a deep love for people. He was a passionate pastor, evangelist, and street preacher for over 40 years, dedicating his life to sharing the Gospel wherever God led him- from church pulpits to sidewalks, from local communities to nations around the world.

He carried a burden for souls and never hesitated to step into the streets to proclaim the good news of Jesus Christ. His voice echoed with truth, compassion, and conviction, and countless lives were touched through his ministry.

Throughout his life, Bro. Billy participated in numerous missionary journeys, faithfully taking the message of hope across borders and cultures. Whether near or far, his mission remained the same-to see lives transformed by the love and power of God.

More than his ministry, he was a man of deep character and conviction. He loved his family fiercely, led with integrity, and lived what he preached. His legacy is not only in the sermons he spoke, but in the lives he impacted, the faith he modeled, and the love he gave so freely. He enjoyed flee marketing and was a collector of knives and watches.

In addition to his father Lloyd Thomas Ward, he is preceded in death by his first wife Charlene Ward and his daughter Victoria Stephanie Rowe.

He is survived by his wife of 10 years Debra Lynn Thacker Ward of Cedar Bluff, VA; son Stephen Ward and wife Lori of Tracy, CA; son-in-law Darrell Rowe of Paynesville, WV; step son Shawn Baker of Rosedale, VA; sisters Barbara Carter and husband Kevin of Tazewell, VA, Priscilla Clendian of Richlands, VA, and Freda Swiney and husband Vicent of Richlands, VA; brothers Evg. Timmy Ward of Richlands, VA, Terry Ward of Richlands, VA, and Philip Ward of Richlands, VA.

Survivors also include his grandchildren Isabella, Elisha, and Josiah Ward, and Cortney, Austin and Ethan Hale; great grandchildren Elliott, Addison, and Xander Hale; step grandchildren Skyler Drew Baker, Gunner Baker, Brandon Rowe, Chantel Rowe, and one on the way; great grandchildren Elliot, Addison and Xander Hale; and step great-grandchildren Randon and Aria Rowe; along with several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services for Evg. Billy Winston Ward will be held Saturday, March 21, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Shortridge-Ramey Funeral Home, Keen Mountain, VA, with Reverends Joe Akers, Frank Lester and Jerry Ward officiating. Burial will follow at Greenhills Memory Gardens, Claypool Hill, VA.

Pallbearers will be family and friends.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Friday, March 20th beginning at 6:00 p.m. with an evening service at 7:00 p.m.

Though our hearts are broken, we rejoice knowing he is now in the presence of the One he faithfully served all his life.

"His Lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy Lord."

Online condolences may be sent to shortridgeramey.com.

The family of Evg. Billy Winston Ward has entrusted the care of their loved one to Shortridge-Ramey Funeral Home of Keen Mountain, VA.