Joe Ward

Joe Ward, 70, of Smithland, died Saturday evening, December 12th, 2015 at Baptist Health of Paducah, surrounded by the family he loved. Joe was a graduate of Murray State University and was a self-employed businessman, who operated a farm and home supply store in Livingston County for many years. Afterwards, he served as Livingston County Judge Executive from 1999-2003 and has served several terms as Mayor of Smithland. Joe was a long time member of the Smithland United Methodist Church and was formerly an active member of the Kentucky Farm Bureau and The Livingston County Soil Conservation District; at both the state and local levels. Joe received many awards and honors while serving the county that he loved. Joe is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 48 years, Cindy; two daughters, Sherry Morris of Calvert City and Susan Walker of Paducah; one nephew, Richard Doom; one sister, Fayhonna Bradford of Indiana.; one brother, Larry “Preach” Ward of Grand Rivers; five grandchildren, Kayla Boone of Marion, Ky., Kevin Morris of Benton, Zack Morris of Ledbetter, Chelsea Walker of Paducah, and Allie Walker of Paducah; six great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, J.E. “Jake” Ward and Mattie Van Hooser Ward; and one brother, Grant Ward. Memorial services will be held Friday December 18th, 2015 at Smithland United Methodist Church starting at 6pm. Friends may call on the family beginning at 4:30 pm until the time of service. The family is asking anyone who wishes to make a memorial contribution in Joe’s honor to donate to the Smithland United Methodist Church P.O. Box 296, Smithland, Ky. 42081 or Livingston County Helping Hands P.O. Box 17, Smithland, Ky. 42081. Smith Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be left at www.smithfc.com