Thomas Ray "Kokomo" Ward

Thomas Ray "Kokomo" Ward, age 65, of Princeton, passed away on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, at his residence. He was born on September 11, 1960, in Welch, West Virginia, and was the beloved son of Nellie Smith Cerankowski of Princeton. Thomas dedicated 32 years to his profession as a truck driver before retiring. He attended Willowbrook Baptist Church in Princeton.

Thomas was preceded in death by his wife, Marketta Lavern Ward, two daughters, Crystal Irene Ward and Teresa Lavern Ward, and one brother, Scott Ward. He is survived by three daughters, Renee Jeanette Heaton of Phoenix, Arizona; Patience Ward-Hines and her husband, Forrest, of Lindside; and Samantha Ward and her partner, Anthony Dube, of Princeton.

His memory lives on through his nine grandchildren: Kayla Clower, Hanna Reece, Olivia Salley, Brenden Hutchins, Kaylee Crawford, Kaden Poindexter, Rollind Dube, Forrest Hines, and Mary Jane Dube. He also leaves behind two great-grandchildren, Addison Clower and Luna Clower.

Thomas is survived by two brothers, Joseph Cerankowski and his wife, Jill, of Princeton, and Patrick Cerankowski of Princeton; as well as two sisters, Darlene Hardgrove and her husband, Todd, of Virginia, and Melissa Compton and her husband, Jimmy, of Princeton. In keeping with Thomas' wishes, he will be cremated. A memorial service will be held at 12:00 p.m. Thursday, November 6, 2025 at Willowbrook Baptist Church in Princeton with Reverend Emory Marchant officiating. Friends may call at the church from 11:00 a.m. until the service hour on Thursday. Follwing the service refreshments will served in Molder Hall at the church.