James Ward

James left this life and ran into the arms of Jesus on February 26 in New Braunfels, Texas after having a heart attack 5 days prior to his death.

James Evay Ward, known to family and friends as “Juggy”, was born in Lubbock, Texas on December 7, 1938 to James Dorris and Ruby Katherine (Stone) Ward.  He accepted Jesus as his savior and was baptized at an early age in his home church of Belmont Baptist Church in Odessa, where he was an active member (and later married).  He graduated from Odessa High School in 1957.  He attended Hardin Simmons where he played college football.

James served in the Army’s 3rd Infantry Division stationed in Aschaffenburg, Germany in the early 60s during the Berlin Crisis.  After his military service, he returned to civilian life going to work in the family Propane, Butane, Gas Hotmix business, JD Ward & Sons working in sales.  In time, he became part owner and president of Ward Enterprises until he retired.  James served on a number of local boards, including the American Cancer Society, and the Commercial State Bank.

James married Kathy Watt in 1964.  To this union two children were born: Laurie Gay and James Todd Ward.  Among those who have gone on to glory before James include both his parents, JD and Ruby Ward; son, Todd; and nephew, Clint Ward.

James is survived by his daughter, Laurie (Ward) Speir and her husband, Michael; two grandchildren, Amelia, and Amanda Speir; his brother, Henry Ward and his wife Rita Ward; nephews, Kevin and Brian; his brother, Norman Ward and his wife Debi Ward; nephew Scott Ward; and his sister, Reba Heard.   He is also survived by numerous cousins and other beloved family members.

During his lifetime, James was an avid outdoorsman with a passion for fishing, hunting and golf.  In adulthood he became a member of First Baptist Church where actively served for many years.

A Memorial Service in celebration of Juggy’s life will be held at 1:00 PM, Monday, March 8, 2021 at Sunset Memorial Funeral Home Chapel, and will be officiated by his cousin, Forrest Ward.  In keeping with Sunset Memorial’s policies for indoor memorials, masks must be worn while in the building.

In lieu of flowers if you choose to you may make a donation in James’ honor to the American Cancer Society or the church or charity of your choice.