James Henry "Sonny" Ward

James Henry “Sonny’ Ward, Jr., passed away peacefully from this life on November 22, 2014 in Biloxi, MS surrounded by his family. Mr. Ward was born in Woonsocket, Rhode Island on July 13, 1929 and served in United States marines for 28 years. Upon his retirement from the Marines in 1974, he retired to Biloxi. His time in the Marines took him to assignments worldwide but the highlight of his service was the time he spent in Japan. Through his travels he made many lasting friendships. He was preceded in death by his parents, James, Sr., and Elsie Ward of Woonsocket, RI; brother, George Ward, Sr., of Gulfport; and nephew/godchild, George Ward, Jr., of Biloxi. Survivors include his brother, Robert (Lori) Ward of Woonsocket, of RI; sister, Elsie (Bill) Lymburner of Cumberland, RI; and nieces and nephews of RI; also his very dear friend, Colonel Robert Autuono of RI; his MS family, sister-in-law, Marie K. (George) Ward; nephew, Jimmy (Amy) Ward; nieces, Angie (Al) Bosarge and Donna (George, Jr.) Ward; and numerous nephews, nieces and friends. Although he never married, he had many caring friends and family who will miss him, especially the Edward and Madeline Kopszywa, Jr. family. His extended family spent many fun times with him at birthday, holidays, cookouts and special occasions with Uncle Sonny. He loved spending time at Treasure Bay Casino where he was known as Mr. Jim or Jim. We would like to thank the Treasure Bay Casino management and staff whom he considered his extended family for all the love and kindness given to him. The family would like to extend a very special thank you to Gentevia Hospice, Jamie, Barbara, Sharon, and Rubby for their loving care and compassion shown to Mr. Ward. Special thanks to his niece, Angie Ward Bosarge, his primary caregiver, for all the love and devotion given to him. The family would also like to thank Dr. Luis Varner, and his staff at Memorial Hospital Gulfport, and for the kindness and care given to him; his special friend and neighbor Richard Gardner, and lastly Brenda White and the management and staff of Palm Isle Apartments for always being there for him. The family would like to thank Dr. Louis Varner, Oncologist, and his staff at Gulfport Memorial Hospital, for the kindness and care given to him; also the members of the Chemo Unit who went well beyond their difficult duties in caring for him. At his request, his body was donated to the University of MS medical center for medical research. The gift of the human body is an invaluable aid to medical science. A memorial celebration will be held at the home of Donna Ward on Saturday, December 13, 2014 at 16097 Three Rivers Road, Woolmarket at 1:30 p.m. (896-4876) The Marines guard the Gates of Heaven. The Howard Avenue Chapel of Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.