Everett Lee Ward of Jackson, Ohio passed away into eternal life on February 22, 2015 at the age of 92. He was a member of Calvary United Methodist Church and was the former pastor at the Coalton Fellowship United Methodist Church for 28 years.
Everett was born to the late Arby and Margaret (Hern) Ward. He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Doris E. (Rhea) Ward. Together they had two children, Barbara (Stan) Coppock and Rick (Bonnie) Ward; two grandchildren, Lisa (Andrew) Childs and Jairus (Samantha) Ward; and three great-granddaughters, Alexa and Sophia Childs, and Rowan Ward.
He was a Jackson Walmart Greeter for 22 years. He loved his job greeting the public and had many friends, each of whom he greeted with a smile.
Everett was a graduate of the Jackson High School class of 1942. He had many activities throughout his life, including Sunday School teacher, Church Choir, 4-H Advisor for 40 years, Master of Scioto Grange, and a member of the Drum and Bugle Corp of Jackson. One of his joys was playing Santa Claus for 35 years for all the children.
One of Everett’s main enjoyments was being Mr. King Apple for the Jackson County Apple Festival for 20 years. In 2004, he was chosen to be Grand Marshal for the Apple Festival.
He was a Navy veteran of World War II in the South Pacific and Alaska.
Everett has one surviving sister, Pauline Booth of Louisiana and a host of nieces and nephews, along with many friends.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by four sisters and one brother.
Everett was a devoted and loving husband, father, and grandfather (Papa). He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him. He leaves us wonderful happy memories and his love will continue to be a guiding force in our lives.
Family and friends may call at the Lewis & Gillum Funeral Home of Jackson on Wednesday, February 25, 2015 from 4 to 8 p.m. A funeral service will be held on Thursday, February 26, 2015 at 1 p.m. at the funeral home with Rev. Herman Stewart officiating. Burial with military honors will follow at Hanna Cemetery. Online condolences may be sent to www.lewisgillumfuneralhomes.com