Gary Ward Obituary

Gary Len Ward, born on May 17, 1960, in Burlington, NC, passed away peacefully in his sleep on August 15, 2025. He was husband to Betty "Darlene" Jude Ward of Moncks Corner, SC, with whom he shared a marriage since 1978. Gary was also a cherished companion to Neena Pendergraft of Graham, NC. Gary was a proud father to his daughters Nicole Blakely (Rodger) of Moncks Corner, SC, Jamie Ward of Bonneau, SC, Jennifer Shirkman (Matt) of Summerville, SC, and Jessie Leigh Ward of Gibsonville, NC; he is also survived by his brother Tony Ward (Maryann) and sister Sharon Galan, all of Graham, NC, as well as his bonus brothers Jeff Jarrett, Travis Jarrett, and Shane Jarrett of North Carolina He was a beloved Paw Paw to six grandchildren, Brilee, Cameron, Tyler, Maddy, Nova, and Joelle. He was also a loving uncle to Steven Fearnside (Heather) of Jacksonville, NC, Brandon "Pickle" Faernside (Emily) of Oak Island, NC, and Lindsey Ward of Graham, NC. Gary was a hardworking self-employed brick mason for most of his life. He enjoyed drag racing, deep-sea fishing, and catfish noodling with his brother Tony. He also loved cooking delicious meals for his family while planning what to eat next. His family and friends will miss him dearly. He was predeceased by his father, Andrew Morris "A.W." Ward, Jr., who passed away in 2008, and his mother, Iris Ray Ward, who passed away in 2024.