Donald L. Ward

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Donald L. (Don) Ward, affectionately known as Bubba, who departed this life on December 23, 2024, at the age of 84, in Acworth, Georgia. A lifelong resident of Mobile, Alabama, Donald was born in Dickson, Tennessee, and graduated from Vigor High School (‘59). He proudly served in the military and was a long-time member and elder at the Western Hills Church of Christ.

Don’s unwavering love for his family was evident in everything he did. He cherished his children—Donny Ward, Robbie Ward (Dawn), Angela Warren, Lori Sharpe (Richard), and Ryan Ward (Tama)—and celebrated each of their accomplishments with immense joy and pride.

He also leaves behind a beautiful legacy in his grandchildren.

Katelyn Dodd (Tucker), Macey Black (Robert), Madison Mountain (Jared), TJ Warren (Hedley), Jonathan Ward (Hannah), David Ward, Harrison Warren, Meredith Anthony, Haley West (Kevin), Lyndsey Elrod, Kaylee Webb (Trent), Caroline Ward, Brittney Sharpe, Andrew Ward, Collin Ward (Daina), Joseph Sharpe, Charlie Ward, Anna-Catherine Ward as well as his many great-grandchildren and step-grandchildren, Chandler, Jillian, Jackson, Kenzie and Mikaela. They were the light of his life, and he loved nothing more than pulling them behind his boat on family outings, creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

He is survived his beloved sister, Shirley Eubanks (Jerrold).

Don leaves behind his devoted companion, Sharon Mathis with whom he shared many years of love and life.

He also leaves behind his stepchildren, Jay Mathis (Cynthia) and Shelby Snider (Shawn), along with an extensive family of great-grandchildren who will forever cherish his memory.

Don had a unique ability to connect with others, making friends wherever he went, and sharing laughter through his well-known jokes—often terrible, but always delivered with a smile. A die-hard Alabama football fan, Don proudly donned his Alabama shirt and hat every day. His loyalty to the Crimson Tide remained steadfast, even when his children and grandchildren’s allegiances sometimes lay elsewhere.

Known as the life of the party, His family found joy not only in his humor but also in his ability to laugh at himself, a testament to his loving and light-hearted spirit.

He was a devoted family man, guiding his children in the teachings of Christ and ensuring that faith was at the center of their lives. Sundays were never missed, and Christmas was a time of joy and generosity, with Don delighting in giving gifts that reflected his deep love for his family. He was a man of many names—Bubba, Don, and Donald—but the title he cherished most was Papa, a role he embraced with open arms and an open heart.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Jesse Ward, his brothers, Robert (Billie) and Bill (Molly), and his cherished grandson, Austin Elrod.

A visitation will be held at Western Hills on the Mobile Christian Campus on January 11, 2025, starting at 12:00 PM, followed by a memorial service at 1:00 PM. Immediately after the service, we invite everyone to join us in a celebration of Don’s remarkable life.

As we remember Don Ward, we carry forward his legacy of love, laughter, and faith, holding dear his favorite scripture:

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” – Joshua 1:9

He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Roll Tide and War Eagle, Dad.