Kenneth “Joe” Calvin Ward Jr., 65, went home to be with the Lord peacefully on August 16, 2026, in Shreveport, Louisiana.

Born on March 7, 1961, Joe lived a meaningful life defined by family, hard work, and his Savior, Jesus Christ.

He was preceded in death by his father, Kenneth Ward Sr.; his brother, Allen Ray Ward; and his sisters, Delores Tramel and Carol Ward, whose memories remained dear to him.

He is survived by his beloved daughter, Nasha Turner, and her husband, Jonathan, along with their children, Ethan and Addisyn; and his beloved son, Aaron Ward, and his wife, Lauren, along with their children, Lorelai, Anabelle, June, and Eva James. He is also survived by his loving mother, Wanda Beech; his sisters, Sue Kaufman and her husband, Richard, and Karen Davis and her husband, Tommy; and countless cousins, nieces, and nephews, all of whom he cherished deeply.

Joe used the gifts God gave him well. With strong hands and a giving heart, Joe built, repaired, and helped wherever he was needed. He had a stubborn streak, but it was often the same determination that made him dependable, hardworking, and unwilling to give up on the people he loved. He was always there for his family and friends, ready to give his time, his wisdom, and even the shirt off his back to help someone. He took great pleasure in spending time outdoors, where he found peace in the simple things.

He had a special love for his grandbabies and all the children in the family. He took great pride in making sure they had what they wanted when they were with him, whether that meant enough cookies to make them sick, a lighter to build a fire, or anything else that brought a smile to their faces, parental objections and all. No one was to interfere with their antics. He could often be heard saying, “Don’t you do that to my babies.”

The memories made with Joe will be treasured always, and his legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him. While his family has suffered a great loss, they are comforted by the immense peace of knowing he is exactly where he longed to be—with Jesus in his eternal home.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, August 21, 2026, at Martin Baptist Church, located at 3191 LA-507, Coushatta, LA 71019. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., with the service to follow at 11:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, his family asks that you honor Joe by sharing your cherished memories, funny stories, or photos of him. They also invite you to offer a helping hand to someone in need and hold your loved ones close.