William J. Ward, Jr.

Bill “Blue Eyes” Ward, 60, passed away on November 21, 2024 in Charlotte, NC. Born in Oahu, Hawaii on August 21, 1964, Bill was known for his fun, loving nature and outgoing personality. A prankster at heart, he also lived as a God fearing Christian, deeply involved with Shady Brook Baptist Church. 

Bill graduated in 1983 from West Mecklenburg High School and joined the United States Marines Corps shortly afterwards.

A family man, Bill cherished spending time with his grandson and family. He often entertained them with his pranks, a hobby he enjoyed immensely. Additionally, Bill was a thoughtful individual who kept a journal documenting his thoughts and life experiences.

Bill is survived by his loving wife of 30 years Michelle Ward; daughter Sara Amaranto-Ward (Ernesto) of Vale, NC; grandson Ernesto Amaranto-Ward of Vale, NC; mother-in-law Nancy Ray of Charlotte, NC; siblings Susan Prieto (Hector) of Monroe, NC, Cheri McAbee (Tim) of Clover, SC, Kelley Ward (Cureen) of Pleasant Prairie, WI, and Curtis Ward (Stephanie) of Statesville, NC; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. Bill was preceded in death by his grandparents, Walter & Ola Milsaps and Marvin & Elsie Ward; parents Whitey and Judy Ward; and nephew Justin McAbee.

A service to celebrate Bill's life will be held Saturday, December 7, 2024 at 2 pm at Shady Brook Baptist Church, 2940 Belmeade Dr., Charlotte, NC, 28214. Those wishing to honor Bill's memory can celebrate his life by continuing to spread joy and laughter in keeping with how he lived his life.