The son of the late Aver and Charles Percy Ward, he is survived by his loving brothers Bobby D. Ward (Fontaine, deceased); David B. Ward (Jongy); and Jackie L. Ward (Cathy) and loving step-children Mitchell (Michelle) Herring; John (Lisa) Herring; and Dottie H. Endrenyi. Three nephews and two nieces along with their children also survive him. He was predeceased by brother Charles A. Ward and stepson Phil Herring and grandson Trey Herring.

He bravely served in the US Navy River Assault Force in Vietnam and proudly wore his cap with its insignia.

Billy enjoyed time with his friend family consisting of Kathleen Mullinnix, Seth and Tyler Benson, and their children Noah, Leah, and Luke. "Mr." Billy spent time every week enjoying lunch and playing games he taught the family, always preferring Cribbage. The kids loved stories of his military experiences or about his time as a kid. He loved the kids just like they were his grandchildren and loved finding something to make them smile, either it was a Hess Truck for Christmas or donuts for morning breakfast. Kathleen and her daughter Tyler enjoyed every moment with Billy and loved to shop with him at Cosco and cook him meals for the week, always making sure they all got ice cream after the long shopping spree.

He retired as Traffic Manager, Tranter Plant, Edgefield, SC.

A visitation with family and friends on Monday, Feb. 26, begins at 1:00 pm followed by a Memorial Service at 2:00 pm in the Mercantile Johnston Chapel lead by Rev. Amanda Richardson, of Johnston United Methodist Church.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of the Mercantile Funeral Home Johnston Chapel. Please share a memory or photo at www.edgefieldmercantilefh.com.