Thomas Milton Ward Jr.

Thomas Milton Ward Jr. affectionately called 'Tommy", "Junie" and "Junie Ward" passed away January 8, 2020. He was born November 17, 1934 in Mathews, Virginia. He was the oldest of three children born to the late Thomas Milton Ward Sr. and Sarah Ellen Reed Ward. Brother to Sarah Louise Ward Sheppard and Viola Deloris Ward, both deceased.

Tommy was educated in the Mathews County School System and graduated from Thomas Hunter High School with honors. Upon graduation, he left the area and went to Coyney School of Electronics in Chicago, Illinois. As a young man, he worked at JH Miles and Company in Norfolk, Virginia, on the boats Oceanview and Oysterman, as a longshoreman.

He would often drive his mother, who was a beautician, to work on clients in neighboring counties. This is how he met his wife of 62 years. The pretty Elizabeth Jordan, his mother's shampoo girl. The young couple wed after she graduated from Apex Beauty School in Richmond, Virginia. From this union, they were blessed with five children.

While raising his young family, Tommy started work at 'The Mill" in West Point, Virginia, owned by the Chesapeake Corporation, He remained there for 34 years as a heavy equipment operator. He was blessed to enjoy over 20 years of retirement, using that time to explore different interests and spend time with his family.

Tommy was a smart, quiet and reserved man. When he spoke, it was something worth hearing. His stories always had a hidden message. He loved working with his hands by woodworking, playing the harmonica and dabbling at playing the guitar. He loved to hunt, fish and go boating.

He is survived by his loving wife, Elizabeth J. Ward and children: Joseph Ward, Rene' W. Best, Duane Ward and Juan Ward. He is preceded in death by his daughter, Aleta Wise. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Navel Wise, Conan Wise, Alexus Ward, Cameron Ward and Caitlyn Ward; and those that he loved as children and grandchildren. He also leaves behind a host of family and friends!

Tommy, Dad, Daddy, Grandpa: the sweet smell of cherry tobacco, the beauty of fast cars, your appreciation of quality gadgets, and the other memories of you that we hold oh so dear...we will keep you close and in our hearts forever!

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