Mr. Jerry Latham Ward, age 79, a resident of Cowan Street, Washington, died Saturday, November 4, 2017 at his residence. Jerry was born November 7, 1937 to the late Annie Louise Barnhill Ward and Luther Latham Ward in Martin County, NC. Jerry married the love of his life, the former Joyce Dunbar on January 17, 1959. He served his country in the Army National Guard from 1959 until 1964. Jerry was a member of First Church of Christ, Washington.

He worked in sales at East Carolina Chrysler and Brown & Wood for many years, retiring in 2004. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by two brothers: Jimmy Ward and Larry Ward. Survivors include his wife Joyce Dunbar Ward of the home; two sons: Terry Wayne Ward and wife Angie of Hampstead, NC and Tony Leon Ward and wife Barbara of Washington; five grandchildren: Lauren Ward and Toni Lynn Ward, both of Greenville, NC, Elizabeth Ward, Katy Ward and Sara Ward, all of Wilmington, NC. A celebration of his life with military honors will be held 11:00am, Wednesday, November 8, 2017 in the chapel of Hillside Funeral Service with Pastor Ray West officiating. Music will be provided by Doug Cutler. The following will serve as pallbearers: Walt Ingalls, Stanley Fulford, Gary Hollis, Timmy Jefferson, Jeff Hardy and Brett Ingalls. A private interment will be held at Oakdale Cemetery. The family will receive friends Tuesday, November 7, 2017 from 6:00-8:00 pm at Hillside Funeral Service and other times at the home. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be directed to Community Home Care and Hospice, 222 Stewart Parkway, Suite 100, Washington, NC 27889, or First Church of Christ, 520 East 10th Street, Washington. The family wishes to thank Anne Davenport and Sheila Lassiter and Community Hospice for their care and concern. Hillside Funeral Service & Cremations, 4500 Hwy 264 E, Washington, has been given the honor of being entrusted with serving the Ward family.