Kevin Ward

Kevin Jay Ward, 44, of Mansfield, passed away Saturday, December 11, 2010, after a short illness. Born July 20, 1966, in Mansfield, he was the son of Joyce Massey Stansberry of Mansfield and Jayson Ward of Bellville. He retired from Richland Correctional Institute after 15 years of service and had also worked at MANCI. He loved to fish, enjoyed boating and was an excellent cook as everyone enjoyed his cooking.

Kevin is survived by his fiancée and best friend, Kelly Bays; his parents, Gary and Joyce Stansberry of Mansfield and Jayson and Karen Ward of Bellville; three daughters, Amber Dustin Stone of Shelby, Kara Ward of Ashland and Karlee Ward at home; two sons, Nick and Jon Burdett both at home; two granddaughters, Arianna Burdett and Jayda Stone; a grandson, Blake Stone; a brother, Keith Dawn Ward of Mansfield; three special nieces, Joni, Kasey and Kayla Ward; three special friends, Billy Salter, Trey Gheen and Joe Wetz; and several aunts, uncles and cousins. Kevin is also survived by his fiancée, Kelly's family, her parents, Jim Simpson and Jeanette Bill Neutzling; her brother and sisters, David Starcher, Jr., Jodi Gheen, Traci Burghard and all their families, and especially Grandma Betty. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Vivian and Anna Massey and Glen and Julia Ward.

Friends may call from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, December 15, 2010, at the Diamond Street Home of Wappner Funeral Directors, 98 S. Diamond St., Mansfield. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, December 16, 2010, at the funeral home conducted by Dr. Dale Adkins of Mansfield Baptist Temple. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the family.