Obituary of Joseph Ward

Joseph "Joe" Eugene Ward entered Heaven from Tampa, Florida on March 29, 2019 at the age of 74. Joe was born on October 15, 1944 in Grant Park, Illinois to Earl and Lillian Ward. 

He married Joann, the love of his life, in 1963. He was a master storyteller and one of his favorites was of their fateful meeting, while both waiting at a red light where he looked over and it was truly love at first sight. Joe never failed to first thank God for every single blessing. He never tired of sharing his faith with any who came within range- to him, each meeting was a divine appointment. He would gladly tell (and sing) of how great the Father's love for us. He was a Sunday School teacher and served in prison ministry at Temple Heights Baptist Church for many years, and later a dedicated deacon at Spring Hill Baptist where he also served on Spring Hill Baptist school board. 

Joseph was a lifetime Union carpenter and was proud of his life's work and his company, Lord & Ward Acoustics.  

Joe is survived by his children, Lee Ann Slaton, Shawn Ruff, Kimberly (Frank) Richbourg, Kelly (Craig) Carter and Kevin Bruce; siblings, Genevieve (Noel) Miller, Susan (John) Renick, and Robert (Debbie) Ward. 

He was blessed with eleven grandchildren, Joseph (Mandy), Jared (Alyssa), Jacob, Kevin (Lauryn), Kyle, Ashley, Lauren (Jordan), Chelsea (Chris), Cameron, Carson, Sharon; and seven great grandchildren who lovingly called him "Pops". 

He is preceded in death by his wife, Joann Ward; parents, Earl and Lillian Ward; son-in-laws, John Slaton and Michael Ruff; and grandson, Jacob Slaton.

A viewing and visitation is scheduled for 9:00 am April 3, 2019 at Loyless Funeral Home in Land O Lakes, Florida. Service to follow at 10:00 am, with Interment afterwards at Trinity Memorial Gardens in Trinity, Florida. Pastor Jose "Pepe" Barreda and his grandson, also Joseph Ward, will officiate the ceremony. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Joseph Ward's life. 

Condolences may be offered at LoylessFuneralHomes.com. 

The family would especially like to thank Katherine, Frank, Kandi, and Tara for their efforts and dedication in caring for Joe.