James "Bubba" Francis Ward

James "Bubba" Francis Ward, 69, passed away on October 18th, 2021 at Leigh Memorial Hospital. He is survived by his brother Wayne J. Ward (and partner Diane DeVilbiss), his nieces Jessica Ward (and spouse Christopher Jarvis Sr.), Kimberly Ward (and spouse Scott Burnett), and nephew Carl "Bo" B. Ward (and spouse Kristen), grand-nephews Aidan Ward, Christopher "CJ" Jarvis II, and Brody, Colton, and Mason Ward. He is also survived by his former sisters-in law, Karen Ward and Alice Ward. His parents Carl "Buddy" Ward Jr. and Veronica "Ronnie" Ward, his brother Carl B. Ward III, his sister Patricia “Tricia” M. Ward and grand-nephew Coley Ward predeceased him.

Bubba was born in Norfolk, Virginia on March 3, 1952. He was the second son of Carl and Veronica Ward. He lived almost his entire life in Ocean View, at the family home Seaward by the Bay. He graduated from Norfolk Catholic High School. He was a plumber by trade.

Bubba was an active member of the Boy Scouts of America and a member of the Blue Heron Lodge with the Order of the Arrow, where he earned the honor of Vigil. He was also a member of The Gem and Mineral Society of the Virginia Peninsula, and The Tidewater Gem and Mineral Society.

As a talented craftsman and artist, his greatest hobby was designing and creating jewelry from the precious and semi-precious stones he collected over the years. He shared his beautiful creations with his friends and family, providing beautiful memories of Bubba and his generous nature. He will be missed by all.

Bubba wished for a memorial remembrance gathering of friends and family. If you wish to share stories and photos, you are most welcome to come and meet at 6pm, Monday, November 1, 2021 at Rosewood Kellum Funeral Home. His ashes will be interred at the gravesite alongside his mother, father, and sister at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Bubba's memory to Children's Hospital of the King's Daughters. Attention: Philanthropy 601 Children's Lane, Norfolk, VA 23507. Please post your condolences to the family at www.kellumfuneralhome.com.