Kenneth Ray Ward, 74, died Tuesday, Nov. 20, 2012, at his home in Raymondville.
He was born in Commerce, Okla., son of Roy Franklin and Bessie Ellen Vest Ward. He and Helen Morris were married July 22, 1957.
He grew up in Buffalo and graduated from Buffalo High School. He attended the Kansas City Art Institute and was an engraver for two major greeting card companies.
He accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior early in life. He was a member of Raymondville Baptist Church and was active as long as his health permitted.
He was a member of the Ozark Mountain Amateur Radio Club, a ham radio group for the area. His call sign was WA0 OTK. He was a board member of the Raymondville Volunteer Fire Department, a member of the Odd Fellows #497, and a member of Route 63 Car Club.
He enjoyed driving his coupe and riding motorcycles. He and his wife, Helen, loved going to blue grass music shows. The greatest joy of his life was his family, especially his grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Michael Ward Sr.; a daughter, Shara Jo McLard; two half-brothers; and two half-sisters.
Survivors include his wife of 57 years, Helen; five grandsons; 10 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.
Services were Saturday, Nov. 24, at Evans Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Frank White officiating. Burial was in Pine Lawn Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to the Raymondville Volunteer Fire Department. Online condolences may be sent to www.evanfh.com.
