Joe Michael Ward

Joe Michael Ward, 74, of Drew, Mississippi, entered the presence of his Lord and Savior on July 18, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Joe was born on February 10, 1952, to Joe Will Ward and Cleo Cunningham Ward in Clarksdale, MS. He was the youngest of three boys and grew up with a love for the outdoors, sports, and family. Joe also had the honor of becoming an Eagle Scout, where he learned many of the skills needed to in life. He was a proud member of the first graduating class in 1970 of Bayou Academy, where he excelled in his sporting endeavors, especially football wearing #31.

Joe remained a devoted sports fan throughout his life and was one of the biggest Atlanta Braves fans you could ever meet. He faithfully cheered on the Ole Miss Rebels as well, even if they occasionally tested his patience.

He was a hardworking man who took great pride in everything he did. As a watermelon farmer, he became well known throughout Mississippi during the 1980s and 1990s for growing some of the sweetest watermelons around. He also raised beautiful beagles that were sought after from near and far.

In addition to farming, Joe found great fulfillment serving as a Game Warden for the State of Mississippi, a career that perfectly matched his love for the outdoors and his desire to serve others.

While Joe had many accomplishments, what defined him most was his unwavering faith in Jesus Christ. He was a simple man with a servant’s heart, loved God, cherished his family, and believed in the value of hard work and integrity. His quiet example, steadfast faith, and unconditional love left an impact that will live on for generations.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Cleo Ward, brother, Jimmy Ward, and son-in-law Brian Wallingsford.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 45 years, Pat Crawford Ward; his children, Wendy Lute (David), Amy Wallingsford, Michael Ward (Angel), and Brandon Bennett (Evangeline Adcock); his brother, Jerry Ward; and grandchildren: Cody, Lauryn, Emily, Luke, Connor, Avery, Noah, Dovie Jo, Lakyn, Gabe, River, Saylor Jo, Peyton, Bailey, and Baylor. Joe gave each of his great-grandchildren special names when they were born, and he seldom ever called them by their birth names. To each of them, he was simply “Pappy Joe”—a title he wore with great pride and one that brought him immeasurable joy. He is also survived by a special God-daughter, Stephanie Holland, and many great friends.

Joe was a faithful member of Ruleville Baptist Church, where his love for the Lord was evident in the way he lived his life. Though his family grieves his absence, they rejoice in knowing that his battle is over, his body is healed, and he is forever at home with his Savior.

His legacy of faith, hard work, humility, and love for family will never be forgotten.

Visitation will be held on Monday, July 20, 2026, from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM at Cleveland Funeral Home. The Celebration of Life Funeral Service will be held at 10:00 AM, Tuesday, July 21, 2026, at Ruleville Baptist Church. (Short visitation from 9:00 AM until start of service.) Burial will be in Lehrton Cemetery in Ruleville, MS. Reverend Thomas Anderson and Reverend Larry Chouccoli will officiate the services.

Pallbearers will be Scott Eubanks, Maury Eubanks, Lloyd Mitchell, Bill Davis, Jay Cobb, and John Costilow. The honorary pallbearers are Stanley Cobb, Calvin Fleming, Bobby Allred, William McDonald, Larry Stevens, and Buddy Weeks.

Memorials may be made to Catch A Dream Foundation at www.catchadream.org . A charity special to Joe over the years.

Cleveland Funeral Home has been honored to serve the Ward family during this difficult time.