David Paul Ward

David P. Ward, 84, Williamston, SC

David Paul Ward, 84, passed away peacefully on January 15, 2021, with his beloved wife, Naomi, by his side. Dave was born April 11, 1936, in Pittsburgh, PA, the middle child of Ida Mahla Ward and Paul “Pete” Ward. He spent his childhood in Zelienople, PA, where he attended St. Gregory’s Catholic School, then proudly played football at Zelienople High School. He married his high school sweetheart, Mary Ellis, and they had three children, who were raised in a home built beside the Harmony, PA, farm owned by Mary’s parents.

After attending Geneva College, and a stint working at Halstead & Mitchell, Dave joined the family business, Ward’s Pump & Tank, where he worked alongside his father, continuing to run the business after his father’s retirement. He enjoyed attending Steeler’s games, honing his golfing skills, annual family trips to Bethany Beach, DE, and attending events with his friends in the Pathfinders club.

Dave married Naomi Battles October 30, 1984, and the two began a love and partnership that lasted until his death. In 2000, after they retired, Dave and Naomi relocated to Williamston, SC. Not one to sit around, he soon took a job in security at the Bosch plant, working until he was nearly 74. There were many things that made Dave happy, including his wife’s excellent cooking; spending time with his extended family; working in his yard; and spending time with their dogs, first DJ, then Heidi, and finally Honey. He and Naomi liked to take drives around the country, visiting small towns and seeing the sights, and visiting Strawberry Hill for homemade ice cream. They enjoyed sitting in their yard, looking at Dave’s carefully trimmed grass and tended flowers, and watching the birds enjoy their feeders, and their dog chase squirrels. A favorite vacation spot was Edisto Island, where they were often joined by family
members. Dave and Naomi also found many friends and much support through the Community Bible Church.

Dave was preceded in death by his parents, his sister, Sally, and Gloria Ward. He is survived by his wife, Naomi; his brother, Rev. Richard E. Ward (ret.); three children, Brian Ward, Julie Ward Smith (Mike), and Ken Ward (Maria); two grandchildren, Gabriel and Sofia Ward; five stepchildren, Bob Rumpler (Debbie), Kathy Doolittle (Chuck), Pam McCall ( Ed ), Donna Dobson, and Diane DelPorta (Patrick); 12 step-grandchildren and 16 step-great grandchildren; two nieces, four nephews; and his dog, Honey.

Due to the pandemic, services will be held at a future date. In lieu of flowers, friends are invited to make contributions to the Community Bible Church in Easley, SC, or to your favorite animal charity.