Paul Edward Ward Jr., 83, of Ona, WV, passed away peacefully on August 23, 2026.
He was born on August 3, 1943, in Louisville, KY, to the late Paul Edward Ward Sr. and Marion Maxine Merryman Ward. A proud veteran, Paul honorably served his country as a Sergeant in the United States Marine Corps.
In his younger years, Paul was an avid hunter who cherished trips to Hampshire County with his father and other family members. Deeply rooted in Russellville, KY, during his youth, he held a special passion for rabbit hunting across those hills and fields.
Paul devoted his work life to supporting his parents, managing the local Huntington icon, Ward's Donuts, where he was well known for making some of the most deliciously different donuts. Simultaneously, he kept up with and maintained his parents' rental properties throughout Huntington, WV. Dedicated to serving his community and fellow veterans, he was a Life Member of the Elks Lodge #313, a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and a member of the Disabled American Veterans (DAV).
Known for his quick wit, generous smile, and heart of gold, Paul made friendships easily wherever he went. Above all, family was his true joy, and he was deeply protective of the family and people he loved. He was married to the love of his life, Haru Ward, for 55 wonderful years before her passing. When surrounded by his grandchildren, his gentle, deep voice and the twinkle in his eyes spoke volumes of the boundless love he held for them.
Paul fought a long, courageous illness for five years and ultimately won that final battle—entering heaven with a new body, reunited with his loving wife and family waiting to welcome him home. Although his family wished so deeply to keep him here with them forever, they take comfort in knowing he is whole, at peace, and reunited with those he loved so dearly.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Haru Ward, and his sister, Sondra Lowe.
Paul’s legacy lives on through his family. He is survived by his daughter, Chiemi McKenna (John); his son, Roger K. Ward; his grandchildren, Matthew McKenna, Nicolas McKenna, Kendall Taylor, and Kaiya Ward; his special nephew, Paul Lowe III "Duke"; and his very special guardian angel, Christy Hall.
Visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, at Wallace Funeral Home in Barboursville, WV. Burial will take place at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Paul’s honor to the Disabled American Veterans (DAV).
Online condolences and fond memories may be shared with the family at http://www.timeformemory.com/wallace.
The family wishes to extend a special thank you to the Veterans Administration Homebound Service for their love and care over the past two years, and a heartfelt thank you to the DAV—especially Jayson Parks, Doug Woodard, and Brenda Adkins—who went above and beyond all expectations.
