William Jonathan (Bill) Ward, 77, of Palestine, WV passed away peacefully at home with loved ones by his side. He was born in Charleston, WV on April 9, 1948. He retired from the WV Division of Highways after 32 years of service. He was owner/operator of Wirt County Auto for many years.

A man who truly never met a stranger, he could strike up a chat with anyone. He had a genuine gift for making everyone he met feel like an old friend. His generosity knew no bounds and he was always the first to offer a helping hand to anyone that needed it.

He was a true outdoorsman and loved hunting and fishing. He cherished the camaraderie of the W&S Hunt Club for over 40 years, where stories and laughter were shared, lessons were taught and bonds with lifetime friends were strengthened.

For many years he proudly served as Santa Claus at local community events, private parties and the Wirt County Christmas parade. He had a genuine kindness and the unwavering belief in the spirit of giving that he exuded every day of the year,

He was a man of integrity and hard work who had a passion for farming whether it was raising animals, planting his gardens, or cutting hay, Sunup to Sundown.

He had a great sense of humor and took great joy in pulling many pranks on his family and friends, he loved to bring a smile to someone's face.

He was preceded in death by his son William (Joey) Ward, Father and Mother, Willard and Kathryn Ward and Brothers Butch and David Ward.

He is Survived by his loving wife of 20 years, Brenda Ward, Daughter Tammy Rotenberry (Kenny), Stepchildren Steven Webster (Cynthia), Jessica Sloan (John) and Sarah Wright, Grandchildren Travis and TJ Kyle, 3 Great grandchildren, 11 step grandchildren, and 4 step great grandchildren. He will be loved and remembered always.

Services will be 2:00PM Tuesday, October 28, 2025, at Matheny Whited Funeral Home of Elizabeth, WV. Visitation will be 2 hours prior to the services on Tuesday.