John Samuel Ward

John Samuel Ward

September 4, 1956 - July 6, 2024

John Samuel Ward, surrounded by his two sisters and close friends, passed away on July 6, 2024, at Emory Hospital in Decatur, GA. Born and raised in Atlanta, John was the beloved son of the late Elizabeth Elyea Ward and Dr. John Albin Ward.

John is survived by his two sisters, Virginia Ward Bradford (Bob) of Thomasville, GA, and Elizabeth Ward Saunders (Chris) of Hiawassee, GA. He was an uncle to six nieces and nephews: Virginia Jeannette Charlson (Andrew), Christopher Lee Saunders (Laura), David Michael Saunders (Ashley), Courtney Bradford Young (Ben), Michael Christian Bradford (Hannah), and Kathryn Saunders Ream (Nate). John also had 12 grandnieces and grandnephews.

John was a proud graduate of Lakeside High School. He furthered his education at Emory at Oxford and then Emory University, where he earned a BS in Accounting and Finance. Driven by a passion for knowledge, John pursued a BS in Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services from Georgia State University. His dedication and expertise led him to a 30-year career as a Systems Analyst at Georgia State University.

John was a member of First Baptist Atlanta for 25 years. His love for nature was evident in his avid gardening, particularly his unique ability to crossbreed various plant species. John also shared his knowledge and enthusiasm for history by lecturing at Stately Oaks, educating elementary students about the lifestyle of the Georgia Creek Indians. John played the piano and composed his own music. Like his father, John was an avid rock collector and cut his own gemstones.

The family will receive friends at A.S. Turner and Sons Funeral Home and Crematory at 10:00am, Saturday July 13. A funeral service to celebrate John's life will be held at 11 a.m. Following the service, John will be laid to rest at the historic Westview Cemetery.

John's life will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew him.