James Douglas "Jim" Ward

1936 - 2025

James Douglas ""Jim"" Ward Greenville - James (Jim) Douglas Ward, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on December 20, 2025, at the age of 89, in Greenville, North Carolina. Born on February 6, 1936, in Martin County, North Carolina, Jim was a cherished member of the community and a source of love and strength for his family. A celebration of Jim's life will be held in the spring. As we remember him, let us carry forward his spirited enthusiasm for life. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of calling him a friend. Jim was the son of Catherine and Roy Ward, who instilled in him the values of hard work, compassion, and loyalty. He was preceded in death by his parents, his infant son Douglas, and his brother, Ben Ward. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Betty, and their three children: Camela Steele (Bryan), Laura O'Brien (Mark), and his son and "#1 man", David. Also by his sister Nancy Stanley (Charles) and loved nieces and nephews. Jim's legacy continues through his five grandchildren: Emma, James, Cameron, Grady, and Lilly, who were his pride and joy. His competitiveness did not waiver even when teaching and playing checkers with all the grandchildren no matter the age. A memory they all will cherish. Jim was a proud graduate of Bear Grass School attending for grades 1-12, before graduating from East Carolina College class of 1960. He earned his BS degree in Physical Education. While at ECC, he was an active member and president of Alpha Phi Omega service fraternity. His love for sports was lifelong. Jim coached baseball at Hamlet High School and remained a passionate sports fan, especially for the ECU Pirates. He was a Pirate Club member for 40 years and a VanSant society ECU member for 15 years. He cherished the friendships and traditions formed at Pirate football tailgates and bowl trips, with plenty of Parker's BBQ and cornsticks along the way. Professionally, Jim was the proud owner of Ward Pontiac-GMC in Newport News, Virginia, for 25 years. He was also instrumental with the Oyster Point Development Corporation, Peninsula Economic Development Council and the Regional Redevelopment & Housing Authority. He was a member of the Virginia Automobile Association and former president of the Hampton-Newport News Dealer Association. He later served as the Director of the Martin County Development Corporation. His contributions to the community were significant, and his dedication to improving the lives of others was evident in every project he undertook. He enjoyed vacationing in the Outer Banks with family and friends, creating treasured memories. His enthusiasm for life was palpable, especially during the Brandon Heights 4th of July Parade and block party and the neighborhood basketball shootout on Christmas day. In his later years, Jim faced health challenges with the grace and dignity that characterized his life. The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the wonderful staff at Barkley House Memory Care in Tarboro, North Carolina, and the amazing staff at ECU Health Hospital for their compassionate care during this difficult time. Special friends and family provided immeasurable support, which the family deeply appreciates. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to The Special Olympics of North Carolina or The East Carolina Pirate Club, organizations that were close to his heart. Arrangements by Wilkerson Funeral Home & Crematory. Online condolences at www.wilkersonfuneralhome.com