Lewis Ambers Ward

Lewis Ambers Ward, of Seal Beach, California passed away on Sunday, September 8, 2024, with his wife Felicia by his side. At the age of 99, Lewis was ready to be with Jesus and his family in heaven. He is now at peace.

Lewis was born on June 30, 1925 in Beaumont, California. His father owned a dairy farm and Lewis enjoyed milking cows, raising chickens to sell to the restaurants, and riding horses. He attended school in Beaumont and after graduating he went into the Army. After the Army he went to Whittier College and then on to Chapman University where he earned a Bachelor’s degree. He was also a member of the Cardinal Quartet. They performed at many places and Lewis loved to sing.

Lewis thought about becoming a minister, as he enjoyed church work, but he also wanted to teach. He attended Long Beach Cal State University to get his master’s degree. He began teaching in the Long Beach Unified School District. He taught at Burcham Elementary School, Marshall Junior High, and Milikan High School where he taught Bible as Literature. He taught the Old Testament first semester and the New Testament second semester. Lewis taught 42 years.

Lewis enjoyed playing Tennis and enjoyed the tournaments he participated in. When he retired in 1990, he got involved in the weekly sing-along at the Long Beach Senior Center. He became the song leader. After Lewis & Felicia moved to Leisure World, they would attend the Community Song and eventually became the directors. Lewis and four others were the song leaders. Singing the old songs and hymns was a favorite past time of his. Lewis and Felicia also enjoyed traveling with their RV and going on cruises with their friends V.K. and Carleen Vose, and Allen and Mary Greene.

Lewis was preceded in death by his brothers, Howard and Edgar, and his sister Rubye. He is also preceded in death by his oldest son, Lewis Ward Jr., and his daughter Annette. He is survived by his wife Felica, his youngest son Allen Ward, his five grandchildren and six great-grandchildren, two nephews and a niece.

Lewis loved his church, Palo Verde Avenue Christian Church, Disciples of Christ. He was an Elder and Song Leader. He always looked forward to Sundays. Lewis had a saying: “I may have many faults, but being wrong isn’t one of them.”