James Richard Ward, 87, passed away on Sunday, Jan. 25, 2026, at Greenbrier Valley Medical Center in Ronceverte, WV. Born Dec. 23, 1938, in Union, WV, he was the son of the late Stewart and Nannie Reynolds Ward. He retired as a supervisor for the WV Department of Highways. He was also a long-time farmer who enjoyed the old ways of farming. He attended the New Lebanon Presbyterian Church. He was a great storyteller and a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend who will be missed by all who knew him.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Deborah Dunbar; an infant child; and two sisters, Virginia Miller and Wanda Pence.
Survivors include his loving wife of 68 years, Patricia Hoke Ward; one daughter, Sandra Arthur; son-in-law, Danny Dunbar; granddaughter, Nikki Weikle and husband Josh; step grandchildren, Danny Dunbar Jr. and wife Autumn, and Melody Spence and husband Danny; great-grandchildren, Jaxson and Kinley Weikle; step-great-grandchildren, Zach East, Danni Dunbar, Ireland Dunbar, and Rogan Dunbar; and several nieces, nephews, and extended family members.
Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 2, at Groves-Mann Funeral Home in Union, WV, with Pastor David Deskins officiating. Burial will follow in Oak Grove Cemetery on Gates Road, Union, WV. Visitation will be held from 12 noon until time of services on Monday at the funeral home.
Those wishing to send online condolences or would like to sign the online guestbook, please do so by visiting www.grovesmann.com. Arrangements by Groves-Mann Funeral Home, Union, WV.
