Bill "Coach" Ward

William “Bill” Ray Ward, 68, of Hixson, passed away on May 21st, 2025. He was born on June 26, 1956, in Dayton, TN., to the late, Arvil and Wilma Ward. He was a graduate of Rhea County High School where he lettered in football. Bill was a proud graduate of Tennessee Tech University with both an undergraduate and later a master’s degree. He received his 2nd master’s degree from Lee University. He taught in the Hamilton Co. School System for 31 years, from 1987-2018. He began his teaching career at Hixson Middle School and then moved to City High School, he had a brief stint at Tyner High School and eventually retired from Lookout Valley High. He taught History, Geography and Economics.

Bill was also known as “Coach” for many years, especially while his kids were in school. His kids quipped “it was his way to coach us and get paid”. Bill was passionate about teaching and always wanted to see his students reach their full potential, whether it be in the classroom, the field, or the gym.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Michael Ward and his grandmother, Ethel Schrimpsher.

Left behind to cherish Bill’s memory are his beloved wife, Sherry, his children, Jason Ward (Mindy), Andrew Ward, and Jamie Ward, his special fur-buddy, Gia, his sister, Diane Swafford (Lloyd) and his brother, Roger Ward (Hope), several nieces and nephews, and many dear friends.

A graveside committal service for Bill will take place privately in the Hamilton Memorial Gardens. The family will have a public Celebration of Life service at a later date.

Please share your thoughts and memories of Bill at www.ChattanoogaNorthChapel.com

Chattanooga Funeral Home North Chapel, 5401 HWY 153, Hixson TN. 37343, has been entrusted with the arrangements.