John Earl Ard

John Earl Ard, 87, went home to his Lord and Savior on May 21, 2026, surrounded by his family in Metairie, Louisiana. Born in Tylertown, Mississippi, on October 27, 1938, John was a beloved husband, devoted father, and faithful follower of Christ. Throughout his 87 years, he touched countless lives through his wise counsel, quiet generosity, and steadfast devotion to those he loved. His integrity, patience, and diligent work ethic left a lasting impression on those who knew him.

John earned a master’s degree from the University of Southern Mississippi and went on to serve for 38 years in education and administration. He retired in 2002 as Assistant Director of Louisiana Technical College’s Jefferson Campus, leaving behind a legacy of faithful service and dedication.

In 1959, John joined the Mississippi National Guard and was promoted to Company Commander of the Tylertown unit in 1971. He later served in the Army Reserve in Jackson, Mississippi, and with the U.S. Army Reserve’s 377th Theater Army Area Command in New Orleans. He retired in 1989 as a Lieutenant Colonel, having served his country with honor and dedication.

John was a longtime member of Memorial Baptist Church in Metairie, where he served as a deacon, taught junior high boys and adult men’s Sunday School, served on numerous committees, and enjoyed greeting others at the door each Sunday. He was frugal with himself and generous with others, often quietly meeting unknown needs. Prayer was central to his life, and he faithfully lifted up his family, his pastor, and other leaders daily. In 1985, John joined The Gideons International because he wanted as many people as possible to have a copy of God’s Word.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Sylvia Harvey Ard; his much-loved daughter, Jennie Ard; two sisters, Lottie Mae Fortenberry and Jimmie Mason; sister-in-law, Katie Hock; and many special nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Warren Quitman and Mae James Ard; his brother, Adma Ard; and three sisters, Doris Blackwell, Mamie Stogner, and Dolees Daughtery.

Visitation will be held at Memorial Baptist Church, 5701 Veterans Memorial Blvd, Metairie, LA 70003, on May 29, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., followed by a Celebration of Life from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. Friends are invited to attend and share stories that reflect the life and legacy of a man who always gave more than he asked in return. A graveside service with military honors will be held at W. Q. Ard Cemetery, 377 Kirklin Rd., Tylertown, MS 39667, on May 30, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

John Earl Ard was a quiet man with a strong faith. One of his favorite passages was 1 John 5:13: “I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life.” More than anything, he wanted others to know the love of Jesus. Though he never sought attention for himself and always pointed the glory back to God, his life spoke powerfully, and his legacy will continue in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

John Earl Ard: a man of faith who will be deeply missed and forever remembered.