James Raymond Ward, 87, of Vernon, passed from this life on Tuesday, April 14, in Panama City at the Sims Veterans Nursing Home. He was born on October 3, 1921 in Walton County to Walter and Eva (Dixon) Ward. Raymond was a United States Navy World War II veteran, and retired from the Department of Transportation. A devoted father, Raymond endeared himself to family and friends by his generous spirit and wonderful sense of humor.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Eva Ward, wife, Doris Ward, and two brothers, Isack Yohn and Wiley Ward.
He is survived by one daughter, Merle Dinkins and husband Brian of Bonifay; two sons: Leaon Ward and wife Ann of Graceville, and Monroe Ward of Wausau; two brothers: Alfred Ward of Vernon and Colon Ward of Bonifay; seven grandchildren; and 10 great grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, April 17, in the Chapel of Brown Funeral Home (Highway 77) in Chipley with the Rev. John Yarbrough Chance officiating. The visitation will be held at 1 p.m., one hour prior to the service at Brown Funeral Home. Interment will follow in the Cypress Creek Cemetery with Brown Funeral Home directing.