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Michael Ward
1954 - 2026
BORN
1954
DIED
2026
Michael Ward Obituary
November 29, 1954 -
January 3, 2026
Michael R. Ward, age 71, passed away on January 3, 2026. He was born on November 29, 1954.
Michael was a devoted father, brother, and friend whose life was centered around family, sports, and community. He was especially proud to be a member of the first graduating class of David Crockett High School, a milestone he spoke of often.
A passionate sports fan, Michael loved ETSU, the University of Tennessee, and the Dallas Cowboys. In his younger years, he enjoyed playing softball, basketball, and golf, activities that brought him joy and lasting friendships.
Michael also cherished time spent at Beef 'O' Brady's with friends and family, where laughter, conversation, and meaningful memories were always shared.
He is survived by his children, Alex Ward and Hannah Ward; his daughter-in-law, Jessica; and his daughter's significant other, KD. He is also survived by his sister, Regina, and his brother, Jeff Ward, along with Jeff's wife, Janet; and his cousins, Jim and Beverly Adams.
Michael was preceded in death by his parents, Addie Jean Ward and Robert Ward, and his brother, Doug Ward.
No services are planned at this time.
Michael will be remembered for his love for family and sports, and the many memories he shared with those closest to him.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Michael Ward
7 Entries
Debi Esterline
Yesterday
I'm honored to have known this man, as my brother-in-law, friend and for a few years co-worker. He was a really good guy and will be missed by many. To Alex and Hannah my heart breaks for you. You are in my prayers! Love aunt Debi.
Paul Nollenberger
Yesterday
Mike was a man who lived life at full throttle. To us, he was more than a nephew-in-law; he was a friend we admired. He was a classic "good old boy" who loved his family fiercely, protecting Alex and Hannah with everything he had as he watched them grow up.
He was a powerhouse on the field and the green, blessed with a natural talent for baseball, basketball, and golf. If you knew Mike, you knew his teams: the UT Vols, ETSU, and the Cowboys. He rode the highs and lows of those seasons just like he rode the highs and lows of life. Even when life "tripped" him up through illness,
betrayal, and corporate greed Mike´s spirit didn't break. He had a way of poking you in the chest with one finger just to make sure you were listening-and usually, he had something worth hearing. He was a man of remarkable fortitude who has finally found his rest in the Nolichucky and a world free of pain.
With love and blessings,
Linda and Paul Nollenberger
Fairhope, AL
Bruce Miller
Yesterday
Praying
Katie LeSueur
Yesterday
Praying for Alex and rest of the family during this time. From Jeremy and Katie LeSueur
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Pattie Berry
Yesterday
Prayers for the Family
Wayne Carroll
Yesterday
Condolences from The Carroll Family.
Gary and linda Pittman
January 6, 2026
Michael was a great friend . We worked together for 30 years and remained friends long after we left our jobs. He was always kind to my wife as well and would visit us on numerous occasions. He was always making us laugh . I remember one day he and my daughter talked sports. She´s an Alabama fan and Michael is a TN fan so he gave her a hard time . It was funny to see him joking around with her but he loved the sports talk back and forth. Nothing but laughs and smiles when he was around. My wife and I will never forget his kindness or his friendship. I lost a great friend but he won´t be forgotten . RIP My Friend! Gary and Linda Pittman
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