James M. Ward, Jr.

Jim was born July 13, 1956 in Columbus, OH, the son of James M. Sr. and Kathleen Walsh Ward. Jim married Nancy Lynn Matlack on November 30, 1984 in Springfield.

Jim graduated from Griffin High School in 1974. He then went on to earn his bachelor's degree in Business from Western Illinois University. Jim worked for Ward Oil in his early years, as well as R.W. Troxell, before co-owning J.M. Ward & Co. He was a member of Christ the King Catholic Church, where he coached the boys' basketball team for 16 years and was named Christ the King Distinguished Alumnus in 2001-2002. He was also a past Grand Knight of the Knights of Columbus Council #364. He enjoyed sports, playing golf, and cheering on the Cardinals, but above all, loved spending time with his grandchildren. Jim was lovingly known by his friends as "Zamo."

He is survived by his wife, Nancy L. Ward of Springfield; son, Wes (Sara) Ward of Springfield; two daughters, Abby (Luke) Isringhausen of Springfield and Elle (Austin) Schwartz of Springfield; six grandchildren, Ewan, Brodie, and Izzie Ward, Levi and Ben Isringhausen, and Briar Schwartz; parents, James and Kathleen Ward of Springfield; brother, John (Cindy) Ward of Springfield; two sisters, Susie (Lindsey) Heinzel of Springfield, and Lisa (Steve) Newman of Orion; two nieces, Rachel Newman and Erika Ward; and four nephews, Jake and Jarrett Ward, Nick Newman, and Max Heinzel.

Cremation will be accorded by Butler Cremation Tribute Center prior to ceremonies.

Memorial Gathering: Family will receive friends from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 13, 2015 at Christ the King Catholic Church, 1930 Barberry Dr., Springfield. Memorial gathering will begin with a prayer service at 4:00 p.m.

Funeral Mass: 10:00 a.m. on Monday, December 14, 2015 at Christ the King Catholic Church, 1930 Barberry Dr., Springfield with Rev. Joseph Ring, celebrant.

Memorial contributions may be made to: Christ the King Church or School, 1930 Barberry Dr., Springfield, IL 62704.