Deacon Henry O. Ward

“He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end.” - Ecclesiastes 3:11 With God’s grace, Deacon Henry O’Bryant Ward, 92, was ushered into the arms of the Lord on the morning of Monday, August 29, 2022. He set his final cast out to the golden shore and transitioned from this life at Northern Cardinal Rehabilitation and Nursing. “Praise the Lord! Blessed is the man who fears the Lord, who greatly delights in his commandments!” - Psalm 112:1 Henry was born on November 2, 1929 to Eli and Marcella Ward in Nansemond County, Virginia. Born to a robust family, he was the seventh of nine children. His parents and siblings; Eli, Lorenzo, Virginia, Arcelious, Willard, Alfonza, Marcella and Vera each preceded him in death. He was also left to cherish the memory of his wife, Doris M. Ward of thirty-four blessed years. “And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.” - Galatians 6:9 Henry was educated through Nansemond County Public Schools and a graduate of East Suffolk High School. After graduation, he entered the United States Air Force as an Air-Force Technician at Fort Francis Warren in Wyoming. He was also employed as a Heavy Duty Mechanic at St. Julian’s Creek and later became a Supervisor at the Naval Weapons Station in Yorktown, Virginia. After retirement, he worked as a painter alongside his friend and fellow Deacon, Mr. Lewis C. White, Sr. He also enjoyed countless hours of fishing with his cousin, James L. White, and loved to travel with his buddy, Richard “Top” Watkins. Henry was very active in the community of Huntersville, serving as the President of the Civic League and a member of Lily of the Valley Masonic Lodge #89. “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” - Psalms 90:12 Henry’s walk with God began at an early age at Little Grove Baptist Church. He was very active in the Church for numerous years. Through this time, he participated in the Male Choir, and served as Deacon. On Sunday, August 24, 2008, he was bestowed Deacon Emeritus as a reflection of his character, deeds and integrity. “A man's heart plans his way, But the LORD directs his steps.” – Proverbs 16:9 A debonair and gracious beacon of light, Henry was always quick-witted with a joke or funny story. He was also a fantastic chef, and was known for his collard greens, fried spots, and liver & onions. Henry would also delight in his favorite, cheesecake. “And He said to them, “Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men.” – Matthew 4:19 Deacon Ward leaves to cherish his memory three children: Kimberly Elizabeth Ward-Vincent (Sherman Vincent), Henry Ward Jr and Willard Ward. Five grandchildren: Kayla Imani Vincent, Eli Corey Ward, Hayden Michelle Ward, Mason Isaiah Ward and Olivia Rose Ward-Gordon. Sister-in-law, Doreen Ward and Brother-in-law, James V. Bryan. Numerous in count, and near to the heart are a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Henry O’Bryant Ward often concluded his prayers in saying, “Free At Last, Free At Last, Thank God Almighty I’m Free At Last.”

Deacon Henry O. Ward

November 2, 1929 - August 29, 2022