Harold Alexander Ward

Harold, of Vestavia Hills, Alabama, passed away on Tuesday, April 26, 2016. He was 86. He leaves behind his loving family and many friends who will cherish their memories of him forever.

Harold was a loving husband and father who dedicated his whole life to serving God and impacting so many lives through that service. His love and devotion to his family were unwaivering and will be greatly missed.

A U.S. Air Force Veteran of the Korean Conflict, Harold was a retired member of Plumbers and Steamfitters Local 91 in Birmingham, Alabama. He was long-time member and deacon of Crestway Baptist Church, where he directed music and selflessly served in Sunday school leadership roles.

Harold was predeceased by his father, Harold F. Ward; mother, Catherine V. Ward; two brothers; and one sister. Survivors include Harold's loving wife of 64 years, Mary Alice Ward; two daughters, Melanie R. Schmith (John E.) and Dawn Marie Jared (Matthew A.); one son, William H. Ward (Gail); eight grandchildren, James H. Ward, Paige Crawford, Emily Ward, Mary Alexandra "Allie" Schmith, John Hunter Schmith, Madison Hays Schmith, David Brandon Harrelson, and Chad Eric Harrelson; and six great-grandchildren.

Visitation will be 2-3 p.m. Friday, April 29, 2016 at Ridout's Southern Heritage Funeral Home in Pelham, AL, immediately followed by the 3 p.m. celebration of Harold A. Ward's life in the funeral home's chapel, Pelham. Burial, Southern Heritage Cemetery, Pelham. Jimmy Wilson and Wayne Wright, officiating.