UNION, WV – James Richard Ward, age 87, passed away on Sunday, January 25, 2026, at the Greenbrier Valley Medical Center in Ronceverte, WV. Born December 23, 1938, in Union, WV, he was the son of the late Stewart and Nannie Reynolds Ward. He retired as a supervisor for the WV Department of Highways. He was also a long-time farmer who enjoyed the old ways of farming. He attended the New Lebanon Presbyterian Church. He was a great storyteller and a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and friend who will be missed by all who knew him.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Deborah Dunbar; an infant child; and two sisters, Virginia Miller and Wanda Pence.

Survivors include his loving wife of 68 years, Patricia Hoke Ward; one daughter, Sandra Arthur; son-in-law, Danny Dunbar; granddaughter, Nikki Weikle and husband Josh; step grandchildren, Danny Dunbar Jr. and wife Autumn, and Melody Spence and husband Danny; great grandchildren, Jaxson and Kinley Weikle; step great grandchildren, Zach East, Danni Dunbar, Ireland Dunbar, and Rogan Dunbar; and several nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00PM on Monday, February 2, 2026, at the Groves-Mann Funeral Home in Union, WV, with Pastor David Deskins officiating. Burial will follow at the Oak Grove Cemetery on Gates Road, Union, WV. Visitation will be held from 12:00PM until time of services on Monday at the funeral home.

Those wishing to send online condolences or would like to sign the online guestbook, please do so by visiting www.groves-mann.com. Arrangements by Groves-Mann Funeral Home, Union, WV.