Rick A. Ward

…Be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee (Hebrews 13:5)

Rick Alan Ward, age 75 of Springdale, Arkansas passed away at Washington Regional Medical Center on Saturday January 17, 2026 surrounded by his beloved family.

He was born July 4, 1950 in Hot Springs to the late James M. & Catherine (Crossley) Ward.

He was preceded in death by his parents, sisters Kathy McDonald and Penny Kathleen Lawson, brothers Gregory Matthew Ward, Philip Anthony Ward and James Steven Ward.

Rick is survived by his wife Peggy of 35 years, his children, Ryan Ward (Tera) of Severance Colorado, Haley Ward of Magnolia, and Shanna Adcock (Alan) of Mena, 5 grandchildren: Tucker Ward, Eli Fields, Kingston Norman, Quentin Adcock and Emma Adcock; two siblings April Hesselbein (Tom) and Tracy Ward, sister-in-law, Casey Ward, brother-in-law Larry Lawson, and several nieces and nephews, as well as many beloved in-laws.

Rick enjoyed the simple things in life. In his retirement, his favorite things were reading books- at least one book a week-and watching sports. He especially enjoyed watching the Razorbacks baseball and football games with his son Ryan. Other favorite past times were watching CNN, the history channel, movies with Peggy and his dog Mozie, and taking naps.

Rick was a life-long educator. He taught high school social studies, coached basketball; and he was a middle school principal for a few years. He also served as the executive director of the Boys and Girls Club in Magnolia for seven years. He loved challenging, inspiring and advocating for his students as well those he supervised over the years. He was loyal, fair, and quietly thoughtful. There are also many who will attest to his courage when he boldly challenged others to "do the right thing."

A celebration of his life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, January 20th, 2026 at the First Presbyterian Church in Mena, AR with the Reverend Dr. Susan Arnold officiating. Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena, Arkansas.

In lieu of flowers, you may donate to the Polk County Library (410 8th St., Mena, AR 71953) or to UARM Foundation (1100 College Dr., Mena, AR 71953) designated for the UARM library or scholarships supporting education majors.

Online guestbook: www.bowserffh.com