Jesse Willard Ward, 81, of Marion, passed away peacefully on Sunday, Sept. 5, 2010.

He was born May 21, 1929, in McDowell County to the late Willard Lucas Ward and Viola Denny Ward. Jesse was retired from Michael’s Pipeline Inc. in Brownsville and enjoyed gardening, fishing and deer hunting. Jesse was a veteran of the U.S. Army, having served in World War II.

Jesse leaves behind to cherish his memory his wife, Elizabeth (Betty) Wilson Ward; a daughter, Lesley Ward of Nebo; a son, Tony (Lori) Ward of Tomahawk; grandchildren, Stacey Young, Justin (fiancé, Megan) Oreskovic and Brandon Ward; great grandchildren, Skyler Young, Rylee Young, McKenzie Wisor and Grayson Oreskovic; seven sisters, Helen W. Viola of Florence, S.C., Violet W. Gouge of Spruce Pine, Lola Richardson and Doris Godsey, both of Maryland, Irene Stockton of Nebo, Darlene Stockton of Old Fort and Betty Howard of Marion; and a number of nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Jesse was preceded in death by a brother, Charles; and five sisters, Dollie Bell, Ruby, Judy, Pansy and Elizabeth "Lib"; and a greatgrandchild, Olivia Young.

A private family service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials should be made to the Ward family, c/o 143 Jesse Lane, Nebo, NC 28761.

Westmoreland Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. An online register is available at www.westmorelandfuneralhome.com.