Edward Harlan Ward

Ed was born in Toledo, Ohio, on December 9, 1936. He graduated from Clay High School as an all-American basketball player and class valedictorian in 1954.

He matriculated to Bowling Green State University where he received his BS degree, was president of the men’s National Leadership Society and voted Outstanding Senior Man. After college, he attended the University of Michigan Law School, and received his law degree in 1961. He served in the US Navy as a lieutenant and became a Judge Advocate General. After 4 years in the Navy, he returned to Bowling Green State University, earning an MBA while serving as Associate Professor and Executive Assistant to the Vice President of Student Affairs.

In 1971, the President of the University of Tampa hired Ed as a member of the faculty and administration. There he worked as an Associate Professor of Business Law, Executive Assistant to the President and University Counsel. He became an assistant State Attorney in Tampa, then counsel for Jim Walter Corporation before being appointed by Governor Bob Graham as a Hillsborough County Judge in 1981. He was twice elected Judge of the Circuit Court, remaining on the bench for nearly 20 years. Upon retiring from the court, he continued his legal work as a mediator and arbitrator.

Ed was a proud 50-year member of The Florida Bar, a dedicated, life-long supporter of Bay Area Legal Services, and board member of the MacDonald Training Center. He enjoyed fishing and sports, but his favorite pastime was cheering on his beloved University of Michigan Wolverines.

While he treasured his time serving the public as a judge, his greatest pride and joy was his loving family. Ed was a devoted husband, father and grandfather and a friend to many, including those to whom he lent a helping hand over the years in the community. Ed’s sense of humor, positive outlook on life and his desire to help others will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. Even until his last days, Ed had a remarkable spirit of kindness and warmth for others.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Eulalie Ione (Hoffman) Ward; his father, Robert Clayton Ward; daughter, Lette Ward Brauer; and, sister-in- law, Barbara Ward.

Fond memories of Ed will forever be cherished by his devoted wife of 46 years, Mary Ann (Lippelman) Ward; daughter and son-in-law, Hon. Laura Ward and Mark Rachal; daughter, Dr. Monica Ward; 4 adoring granddaughters; brother, Al Ward; brothers-in-law Robert Lippelman (Paula); and Dr. John Lippelman (Nancy); and, numerous nieces and nephews.

Friends and family are invited to attend a funeral service at 11:00 am on Thursday, October 24, 2024, at Hyde Park United Methodist Church, 500 W. Platt St.,Tampa, Florida followed by a reception at Blount & Curry Life Event Center 605 S. MacDill Ave.Tampa Florida.