Matthew Charles Ward

In Loving Memory of Matthew Charles Ward
September 6, 1981 – June 28, 2025
A celebration of Matthew's life will be held on Saturday, July 12 at 3:00 p.m., at Pilgrimage United Church of Christ in Marietta, GA.
Matthew Charles Ward, 43, passed away on June 28, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, laughter, and unwavering love. Known for his huge heart and even bigger personality, Matthew was the light of our family-always smiling, always joking, and always lifting others up, even behind the scenes. He made it his mission to ensure everyone felt seen, valued, and loved.
Born in David, Panama, on September 6, 1981, Matthew was adopted at just two weeks old by James and Gloria Jean Ward, who brought him home to a life filled with love. From the very beginning, Matthew brought joy and connection wherever he went. He had a natural gift for sports and was an exceptional athlete-fearless, talented, and competitive in the best way. Soccer, basketball, baseball, and golf-whatever the game, Matthew didn't just play, he stood out.
Matthew worked as a salesman for Flex Imaging, formerly known as Southern Cross Systems. It was the perfect role for him-because in true Matt fashion, people were his niche. He could talk to anyone, and more importantly, he made everyone feel heard. He had a rare ability to connect with anyone, no matter their background or walk of life. To Matt, people were people-and he treated everyone with the same kindness, respect, and genuine care. The number of lives he touched is a true testament to the way he moved through the world-with open arms and an open heart.
His greatest pride in life, however, was being a father. He leaves behind his beloved sons Joseph, Joshua, and Isaiah. They were his joy, his purpose, and his proudest accomplishment. He poured his whole heart into fatherhood, and he extended that same love to others around him. Cole Massey and Josh Mero were like sons to him.
Matthew's love for his family ran deep. His parents were his entire world. In his eyes, they hung the moon. The bond they shared was built on a foundation of unconditional love, respect, and admiration that never wavered. Though he had two sisters, Jessica and Holly, he also had a brotherhood of friends he loved just as deeply-loyal to the end and always ready to give whatever he had to those he cared about.
He also found immense joy in being an uncle. His nieces and nephews were a huge part of his heart, and he shared a particularly special bond with his niece Evelyn. He didn't just love her-he helped raise her. The way he cared for her, looked out for her, and showed up for her was nothing short of fatherly. That bond was deep, real, and lasting.
To all the kids who knew and loved him-his sons, nieces, nephews, and even those he simply took under his wing-he was lovingly known as "Pops." It was a name that reflected his quiet strength, his protective spirit, and the deep love he gave so easily.
Matthew had a soft spot for animals, particularly dogs. Like with people, he never met a stray he didn't love. Every dog, whether his or someone else's, was family. He welcomed them with the same care and devotion he gave to everyone in his life.
Matthew was also a passionate sports fan, through and through. His ever-growing collection of hats was a testament to his loyalty and love for the game-switching them out depending on which team or event he was cheering on that day. But above all, he was a lifelong and devoted Pittsburgh Steelers fan. He could talk sports with anyone-college or pro, player or coach-because he truly knew and loved it all.
Matthew lived his life with generosity, humility, and love. He didn't need the spotlight to make a difference. He made his impact quietly and powerfully-through late-night check-ins, thoughtful gestures, and being the person you could always count on. He will be remembered not just for what he did, but for who he was: a best friend, a protector, a peacemaker, and above all, a deeply loving soul.
Matthew is preceded in death by his grandparents, Charles and Mildred McLemore and Frank and Shirley Ward. He is survived by his parents, James and Gloria Jean Ward; his sisters, Jessica Ward and Holly Sinquefield; his sons, Joseph Saenz, Joshua Saenz, and Isaiah Ward; and his nieces and nephews-Mark Gomilla, Evelyn Ward, Bram Sinquefield, and Dawsie Sinquefield. He is also survived by many aunts, uncles, cousins, and a large extended family of lifelong friends who felt like family.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Curt's Closet, the Cherokee County Humane Society, or any charity or rescue of your choice, as Matt was known for giving to everyone-human or animal alike.