Rev. Horace F. Ward, 85, passed away on Sunday, May 24, 2015 at Vidant Hospice House after suffering a massive stroke. He was born in Columbus County on April 29, 1930 to the late Willie and Edith Ward. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his brother, Elbridge Ward and sisters, Hilda Henry and Gayle Christian. Left to cherish his memory are his wife of nearly 65 years, Rebecca J. Ward; his daughter Teresa W. Martin and husband Larry E. Martin; daughter Denise W. Price and husband Charles Craig Price; 3 grandchildren, Chad Martin and wife Melissa Martin, Christy Pannell and husband Matthew Pannell, Stephanie Powers and husband Brad Powers; 7 great grandchildren, Juliet and Ella Martin; Luke, Matthew, and Noah Pannell; and Skylar and Aubrey Powers.

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Horace loved the Lord and was devoted to bringing glory and honor to God and serving others. He served his country well during the Korean War as was evidenced by the 3 bronze stars he was awarded. (And as was true to his humble character the family didn't even know about this until seeing his military discharge papers in the past week). He loved his family and loved family times together and family traditions. He was a member of Arlington Baptist Church and pastored numerous churches over the years. His passion for prison and jail ministry led to the formation of Tar Roanoke Chaplaincy, a ministry that he was very dedicated to. He had a special love for people and touched many, many lives. He believed in "doing whatsoever he did heartily as unto the Lord," whether it was ministry in the jail or playing a gaime. He stayed very active and enjoyed playing ping pong, cornhole, swimming, and working out. He will be truly missed by his family and all who knew him.