Gerald E. "Jerry" Ward

Gerald E. Ward, 83, passed away on August 23, 2012. He was born in Brooklyn, NY to the late James E. and Margaret M. Ward and was raised in Jacksonville, FL, the older of two siblings. Jerry joined the U.S. Navy shortly after high school and met his future spouse, Shirley, at a skating rink in Chicago. They were married for 54 years and raised a son together. Jerry retired from the Navy and the U.S. Postal Service as a Postmaster. For 12 years, he and Shirley traveled in a motor home and visited 49 states.

Preceded in death by his wife, Shirley W. Ward, he is survived by his son, Kenneth E. Ward (Stacy); sister, Eleanor Bacon (Bill); grandson, Kenneth E. Ward (Patty); great grandson, Kenneth E. Ward; along with numerous family members and friends.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, August 31st in Hardage-Giddens Funeral Home of Mandarin. The Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 1st in Hardage-Giddens Funeral Home of Mandarin, followed by interment in Mandarin Cemetery.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Hardage-Giddens Funeral Home of Mandarin, 11801 San Jose Blvd. Jacksonville, FL 32223. www.hgmandarin.com (904) 288-0025.