Vernie Ray Ward

Vernie was born on June 4, 1930 on a farm near Charlie, Texas. After graduating from Wichita Falls High School, he enlisted in the Army where he served for nine years during the Korean War. Part of his service was overseas in Japan. He received training in sonar and electronics, and continued his education at Los Angeles State College after leaving the military.

He was married to Tilda (Tillie) Mae Ross on April 1, 1960 in Paramount, California. They had two children and lived in Paramount until he retired in 1990. In 1991, Vernie and Tillie moved to Austin, Texas to be near their children and grandchildren.

He was employed by Rockwell International Space Division in Downey, California for 32 years as an electronics test engineer. His special projects included work on the Apollo and Space Shuttle Programs.

Vernie was a long-time member of the Church of Christ. He loved the church and served as an elder in the Imperial Highway Church of Christ in Downey, California for many years.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Effie Elizabeth Emery Ward and Cecil Vernell Ward; his brother, Cecil Vernell Ward Jr.; his sisters, Vivian Vildeen Ward Taylor and Betty Lou Ward Davis and his son, James Vernon Ward. He is survived by his wife, Tilda Mae Ross Ward of Austin, Texas; his daughter Judy Sue Ward Smith and husband Gary of Austin, Texas; his grandchildren, Justin Lee Smith and wife Amber of Leander, Texas and Rachael Dianne Smith of Austin, Texas and his great grandson Westin Lee Smith of Leander, Texas.

Funeral Services will be held on Monday, January 11, 2021 at Brentwood Oaks Church of Christ, 11908 N. Lamar Blvd, Austin, Texas 78753 with the committal service immediately following at Cook-Walden/Capital Parks Cemetery.