Ira “J.W.” John William Ward, age 82, of DeFuniak Springs, Florida passed away Saturday, June 18, 2016 at the Chautauqua Rehabilitation and Nursing Center. He was a member of Solid Rock Community Church where he played guitar and harmonica for their choir. Flower and vegetable gardening were more pleasure than work for him. Fresh veggies produced by his hands were given and enjoyed by countless numbers of families throughout the community year after year. J.W. enjoyed fishing, spending time with family and friends, and helping people when he saw a need. He was employed with Silver Beach Motel and Cottages as well as Shoal Shopping Center in Destin for more than fifty years.

J.W. is preceded in death by his wife of 48 years, Louise Ward; parents, Ira and Eree Ward; son, James Ward; and two sisters, Catherine Mott and Betty Ward.

He is survived by his wife of sixteen years, Darlene; six children, Martha Guilmain and husband Harry of Ponce de Leon, FL, Doris Stanley and husband Ron of DeFuniak Springs, Kay Walker and husband Sonny of Lynn Haven, FL, Bobby Wilson and wife Cathy of DeFuniak Springs, Charlotte Jinright and husband Joseph of Freeport, FL, and Jimmy Lee Ward and wife Tina of Indiana; seven grandchildren, Michael Craib of Hopedale, MA, Gary Dow and wife Angie of NC, David Stanley and wife Monica of NC, Dewayne and Hunter Wilson, Sandra MItchem, and Matthew Guilmain; eight great-grandchildren, Tyler, Wesley, Christian, Nicole, Savannah, Trinity, Grace and Faith; one brother, Jimmy Ward and wife Dale of Baker, FL; and three sisters, Voncille Segebart, Mary Aledia, and Jean Escucha.

Memorial services will be held Monday, June 27, 2016 at Solid Rock Community Church of DeFuniak Springs beginning at 6 p.m. with Pastor Larry Murphy officiating.

Arrangements are under the direction of Davis-Watkins Funeral Home and Crematory.
Jun 21, 2016