James Kenneth Ward

James Kenneth Ward, 87, of Effingham, SC, passed away Saturday, June 13, 2026.

He is the son of the late Clarence Henry Ward and Catherine Renfro Ward.

James served 25 years in the United States Air Force before retiring, during which he traveled the world and never met a stranger. After his military career, he dedicated 20 years to teaching Air Force ROTC at West Florence High School, where he also developed a specialized program known as the Vanguard Knights.

In addition to his parents he is preceded in death by his wife, the love of his life, Diann S. Ward; daughter, Melody Dianne Ward; and brother, Andy Ward.

Surviving are his son, Kenneth M. (Cindy) Ward; grandchildren, Amanda (Jared) Acy, Kristen (Adam) Davis, Katelyn (Levi) Young, and Jacob Collier; great-grandchildren, Peyton Davis, Pierce Davis, Rowe Davis, Ruby Acy, Baxter Acy, Abel Young, and Mabry Young; brother, Jack S. Ward; Mother of his children, Lydia Mae Gourley; and special friends, Sharon Taylor and Jerry Taylor Sr. and family.

The family will receive friends and family from 1:00 - 2:00 PM on Friday, June 19, 2026, at Florence Baptist Temple Chapel with the funeral service to follow at 2:00 PM.

Burial will be at a later date in Bentonia Baptist Cemetery in Bentonia, Mississippi.

Family also will receives friends at the family home at 3403 James Turner Road Effingham, SC, 29541.