James Andrew Ward

James Andrew “Drew” Ward, 87, passed away on August 14, 2025. Drew was born on May 11, 1938, in Pittsburgh, PA, the son of the late John and Harriett Ward. Drew was the youngest of seven children.

He graduated from St. Vincent College with a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and went on to earn his Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry from the University of Notre Dame. Drew’s professional life reflected his deep love for science: he began his career at Babcock and Wilcox then worked in Radiation Chemistry at Union Carbide where he met his wife, Nancy. In 1979, he joined Buckman Laboratories in Memphis, TN, as a polymer chemist, where he remained until his retirement in 2008.

Drew is survived by his beloved wife of 59 years, Nancy, and their six children: Mike Ward (Mi Ran), Kathleen McDonald (Lester), Colleen Walker, Danny Ward (Shannon), Sarah Ward (Matthew Johnson), and Andrew Ward (Aindrea). He is also survived by his sister, Patty Mundy (Billy), and thirteen grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, Drew was preceded in death by his brothers, Jack, Lee, Anthony, and Paul, and his sister, Mayette.

Beyond his work, Drew found joy in restoring old houses, tending his yard, and cheering on his children from the sidelines. He was a communicant and one of the founding members of St. Philip the Apostle Catholic Church in Somerville, TN, serving faithfully as a lector and Eucharistic Minister as well as teacher, youth minister, and various other roles including providing refreshments for parishioners after mass. He valued God and family above all else, creating cherished memories through sporting events, camping trips, canoe adventures, science fair projects, and family vacations.

A lifelong sports enthusiast, Drew was center for his collegiate football team and especially devoted to his beloved Pittsburgh Steelers and Fighting Irish. Drew also loved history, good books, and a classic Old Fashioned. Known for his generosity, he opened his home to those in need including displaced families and young mothers. Drew and Nancy were instrumental in the establishment of Fayette Cares. His and Nancy’s dedication to service was honored as part of President George H. W. Bush’s “A Thousand Points of Light.”

Drew’s life was defined by faith, curiosity, generosity, patience, and love. His family will miss his wisdom, humor, and unwavering support, but they take comfort in knowing his legacy lives on in all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Fayette Cares, 13300 N. Main St. PO Box 326, Somerville, TN.

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