George Raeburn Ward

George Raeburn Ward, born April 13, 1951, in Gainesville, Florida, passed away at the age of 75 in Jacksonville, Florida, on May 27, 2026. A lifelong resident of North Florida, George lived a life defined not just by service and accomplishment, but by quiet devotion—to his family, his community, and the values he learned at a very young age.

George was raised in Lake City, Florida, where his roots ran deep and his character began to take shape. Some of his fondest memories were made at Kingsley Lake, where long summer days turned into a lifelong love of the water. Whether gliding across the lake on a slalom ski or mastering the challenge of barefooting, he found joy in both the thrill and the freedom of being outdoors.

From boyhood, George could often be found in downtown Lake City, following a daily routine that would help define his life. After school, he would stop at the Rexall Drug Store for a milkshake before heading to Roy Ward’s Jewelry and Gifts to work alongside his father. There, he swept sidewalks, arranged displays, assisted customers, and did whatever was needed. More importantly, he learned from his father—not just the business, but the importance of treating people right, earning trust, and taking pride in your work. The bond they shared was strong, built on respect, time, and a shared sense of purpose.

George graduated from Columbia High School in 1969 and went on to attend Mercer University. After a serious head injury forced him to leave school, he faced a difficult setback—but like so many moments in his life, he responded with determination. He enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and served honorably during the Vietnam War as an Electronics Technician working on computerized radar systems designed to intercept hostile aircraft. He was discharged in 1974 with the rank of Sergeant (E-5), carrying forward the discipline and resilience that would guide the rest of his life.

Following his service, George returned home and continued his education, earning an Associate of Arts degree from Lake City Junior College and a Bachelor of Arts in Accounting from the University of North Florida.

While living in Jacksonville, George met Joan Marie Goree, an educator whose kindness, intelligence, and faith would perfectly complement his own. They married in June 1977 and returned to Lake City, where they built a life grounded in love, faith, and community. Together, they created not just a home, but a foundation for their family and everyone around them.

George eventually took over the family business, continuing his father’s legacy while making it his own. Ward’s Jewelry and Gifts became more than a store—it was part of the fabric of Lake City. Couples began their lives there, selecting china, crystal, and gifts from the beloved “Bride’s Table.” Customers came not just for merchandise, but for the relationships and trust that George built over decades. He and Joan often traveled together to select new items, always taking pride in keeping the store welcoming and special. When the doors closed in 2017 after 64 years, it marked the end of an era—one built on family, dedication, and community connection.

George’s commitment to Lake City extended far beyond his business. For 21 years, he served as a City Councilman, quietly and steadily helping shape the community he loved. He approached public service the same way he approached life—with thoughtfulness, integrity, and a focus on long-term impact. From improving the local airport and utilities to supporting downtown revitalization projects like the Blanche Hotel and Olustee Park, his work helped move Lake City forward for generations to come.

He also gave his time to the Lake Shore Hospital Authority Board, the Downtown Action Corporation, the Fire Pension Board, and the Kiwanis Club. Whether through leadership or quiet support, George believed in showing up and giving back.

Above all else, George was a family man. He was a steady, guiding presence—someone his family could always rely on. He and Joan raised three sons, Chris Ward (Jaci Ward), Jeff Ward (Alicia Ward Barreda), and Stephen Ward, instilling in them the same values that had shaped his own life. He took great pride in watching his family grow, especially his six grandchildren—Kate Ward, Augusto Ward-Barreda, Diego Ward-Barreda, Iyla Ward, Sasha Ward, and Ivy Ward—each of whom brought him deep joy.

He is also survived by his beloved sister, Jane Ward Gault (late husband, Dave Gault); her children, George Gault and Jennifer Gault Lambert (husband, Erich Lambert); and their children, Darby Lambert and Will Lambert. He was preceded in death by his parents, Roy Ward and Frances Peek Ward.

Before recently joining Deermeadows Baptist Church, he was a longtime member of First Baptist Church and Parkview Baptist Church. George lived his faith in quiet, meaningful ways—through generosity, humility, and a genuine care for others. He supported local schools, charities, and community causes, often without recognition, simply because he believed it was the right thing to do.

George will be remembered not only for what he accomplished, but for how he lived. He was the kind of man who showed up early, stayed late, and did things the right way. He was thoughtful, dependable, and kind—someone who earned respect not by demanding it, but by living a life worthy of it. To know him was to trust him, and to be part of his life was to be better for it.

A funeral service will be held on Thursday, June 4th at 11:00 AM at Deermeadows Baptist Church, Jacksonville, FL. Burial will take place at Jacksonville National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in George's honor to Lewy body Dementia Association at https://lbda.org/donate or Fisher Center for Alzheimer’s Research Foundation at https://www.alzinfo.org/