Wilbur Gaines Ward

Wilbur Gaines Ward, age 94, of Lucedale, Mississippi, passed away peacefully on February 6, 2026, at Providence Hospital in Mobile, Alabama, surrounded by the love of his family and friends.

Wilbur was born on November 25, 1931, to Ernest and Sue Ward and was the youngest of three children, following siblings Ernestine and Loren Ward. Raised in rural George County, he grew up with humble beginnings that shaped his strong character, work ethic, and lifelong love of the outdoors and farming.

He met the love of his life, Stella Bailey, and together they shared 73 devoted years of marriage. Wilbur was a proud and loving father of five children, a cherished grandfather to eight grandchildren, and a joyful great-grandfather to fourteen great-grandchildren with the newest great-grandchild arriving on the very day of his passing, a testament to the generations touched by his life.

Wilbur was a graduate of George County High School and attended Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College. He dedicated his professional life to public service, serving the people of George County as Circuit Clerk for 32 years. His leadership extended statewide through his service as Chairman of the Mississippi Circuit Clerks Association.

His commitment to education and community was further exemplified through his 45 years of service on the Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College Board of Trustees, including time as chairman of the board. Upon his retirement in 2010, he was honored with the Sam Owen Award in recognition of his outstanding service and leadership.

A man of deep and unwavering faith, Wilbur loved the Lord and faithfully served Jesus Christ throughout his life. His service to the church included roles as Sunday School teacher, Sunday School Director, Chairman of the Deacons, and member of numerous committees. He served as Chairman of the Building Committee during the construction of the First Baptist Church Fellowship Hall and Bell Tower, projects that reflected both his leadership and devotion.

Wilbur was also actively involved in civic life, serving as a member of the George County Junior Chamber of Commerce and as chairman of the PTA for many years.

Known for his storytelling, quick wit, and warm sense of humor, Wilbur was devoted to his family and lovingly known as "Pots" by his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He found joy in hunting, farming, and yardwork, having worked as a dairy farmer, soybean farmer, and Christmas tree farmer. He valued education, hard work, integrity, and service-values he modeled daily through his words and actions.

Wilbur's faith guided every aspect of his life. He leaned on Jesus Christ to lead his family, serve his community, and care for others with love, respect, and compassion. His life was a living testimony of servant leadership and quiet strength.

Wilbur is survived by his beloved wife, Stella Bailey Ward; his children Ben (Edna Purvis), Robin (Clark Ladner), David, Rachel (Randy Rigney), and Tom (Ginger Walley); his grandchildren: Jaclyn (John), Lindsay, Betsey, Annabel, Jacob (Leah), Zach (April), Emily (Alec), and Aaron; and his great-grandchildren Addie, Ben, Hudson, Estee (Matt), Collin, Kyle, Owen, Marcus, Lucy, Lydia, Tatum, Asher, Levi, and Sophie.

Visitation will be held on February 11, 2026, from 5:00–7:00 p.m. at Sigler Funeral Home and on February 12, 2026 from 10-11 a.m. at First Baptist Church of Lucedale.

The funeral service will be February 12, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at First Baptist Church of Lucedale, with graveside services to follow at Magnolia Garden Cemetery in Lucedale.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Providence Hospital, and especially the SAAD Hospice staff, for their compassionate and loving care. The family also thanks the many friends and loved ones who offered prayers, visits, and encouragement.

Wilbur Ward will be deeply missed and forever remembered. Those who loved him find peace in the promise that they will be reunited through the inseparable love of Jesus Christ.

"For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord."
Romans 8:38–39

Sigler Funeral Home, 601-947-3112, www.siglerfuneral.com, 4248 Main Street, Lucedale, MS, is in charge of arrangements.