Chatman Louis Ward, a beloved and devoted son, husband, father, and grandfather, passed away on December 28, 2025, at the age of 59, surrounded by his family. Born on May 6, 1966, in Brooklyn, New York, to Alzattie Morgan Ward and the late Bobby Louis Ward, he was the second oldest of seven children and was affectionately known as “Chat” by his family and friends. Chatman was known for his generous, hardworking, and honest nature.
Chatman spent his early childhood in Brooklyn until the age of 12, when he and his family moved to Phenix City, Alabama. He attended Central High School and graduated with the Class of 1984. After high school, Chatman began his career at Swift Denim, where he was employed for 21 years until the company closed. He later joined the Columbus Consolidated Government, where he dedicated 15 years of service before retiring.
Chatman was a dedicated family man who cherished every moment spent with his loved ones. He was reliable, loyal, and truly a jack of all trades. Chatman was a natural leader who always took the initiative, never hesitating to step in when something needed to be done. If something needed fixing, he was just one call away. A passionate college football fan, he proudly supported the Auburn Tigers and loved cheering on his “War Eagles.”
He was also an avid TV and movie enthusiast and a huge Star Wars fan. Known for his warm smile and unforgettable sense of humor, Chatman could make anyone laugh. He enjoyed yard work, grilling, and embracing his cowboy spirit, especially through his beloved cowboy boots, and he loved the movie Urban Cowboy. He loved the music of New Edition, a soundtrack that followed him through many chapters of his life. One of his greatest joys was traveling and cruising with his wife, Kimberly, creating memories they treasured deeply. He found joy in the simple things that made life meaningful.
He was preceded in death by his father, Bobby Louis Ward, and his sister, Mary Princess Morgan Ward.
Chatman is survived by his best friend and wife of 40 years, Kimberly, and his children, two sons, Justin Ward and Chatman Markel Ward (Alexis), and three daughters, Ke’Ondra Ward, Bobbie Ward, and Anais Ward Stewart (Jacobe). He is also survived by his loving mother, Alzattie Ward, along with his grandchildren Ava Rose, Anthony, Kairo, Ayden, Alaiya, August, Bradley, Brayden, and Blakelynn. He leaves behind his brothers Nelson Louis Ward, John Phillip Ward, and Jayson Jay Ward, and his sisters Barbie Ward Graham and Alzener Ward, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.
Chatman will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. His laughter, generosity, and steady presence will live on in the hearts of those he touched, and his legacy of love, strength, and kindness will continue to guide his family for generations to come.
"May the Force be with you"
