James Earl Ward, of Forsyth, Missouri, passed away on Wednesday, October 30, 2024 at Mercy Hospital in Springfield, Missouri.  He was 72 years old.

The son of Tarlton and Lena Mae (Woffard) Ward was born on December 3, 1951 in Morrilton, Arkansas.

James loved the outdoors and enjoyed hunting and fishing.  He loved to eat cheeseburgers and was known to steal snacks from friends and family. James was animal lover but especially loved his cat, Fearsome.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, William Ward; and four sisters, Mary Shipp, Charlene Shipp, Joann Ward, and Zula Mae Nicholson.

Survivors include two daughters, Jennifer Miller and her husband, James and Mary Jane Ward and husband, Larry Bailey; six grandchildren, Jeffrey Miller, Ariel Resendiz, Marylin Graham, Macayla Shepard, Kristal Miller, and Jarrot Stroud; six great grandchildren; one brother and his wife, Jim and Linda Ward; two sisters, Beverly Ward and Carylon Shipp; his best friend, James Lockett; a special friend and snack buddy, Stephanie Bailey; and a host of nieces and nephews.

A family conducted memorial service will be held at a later date.