Stephen “Steve” Ward, age 77, joined his Savior on Easter Sunday, April 5, 2026, in the presence of his loving family.

Steve was born on April 28, 1948, in Springfield, Missouri to Glenn and Elsie Ward.  He attended Springfield Public Schools and graduated from Central High School in 1966.

He was one of the last US Army “draftee’s” and served in Vietnam as a chaplain’s assistant on the front lines.

He was preceded in death by his parents.  He is survived by his wife of 57 years Linda, his two daughters, Wendy Renfrow, and her husband Lance and Allison Smith; his cherished grandchildren, Ryley, and Reese Renfrow, Mavree and Finlee Ward Smith.  His Brother, Larry Ward and his wife, Patricia, his nephew, Randy Ward and his wife, Kelly, his niece, Lori Ellerman, along with numerous cousins and extended family members.

Following his devotion to God, Steve’s family was the center of his life.  He took great joy in attending his grandchildren’s games, soccer matches, cheerleading events, school programs, and every event he could.  He especially loved holiday gatherings and never missed the chance to challenge family and friends to a spirited card game of Rook.

At the age of eight, Steve accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior at High Street Baptist Church and was later baptized there.  He was active in the teen department while attending high school.  He eventually surrendered to the ministry and was ordained at the same church.  Steve genuinely loved the Lord and loved people deeply.  He was a humble and generous man, marked by prayer, compassion, wisdom, and unwavering faith.  He was a friend and a great listener to “many”.

An avid reader and lifelong learner, Steve built an extensive personal library that he frequently studied and referenced.  He attended numerous colleges throughout his life.  Beginning at Baptist Bible College and culminating in earning a doctorate degree from the University of Florida in counselor education, specializing in marriage and family counseling.  Go Gators!

Steve lived out his beliefs daily.  He held firmly to the truth that Jesus Christ, came, died on the cross for our sins, rose again and is coming back.   His life was a testament to that message, and his legacy of faith, love and devotion will continue to impact all who knew him.  He was a gifted teacher, preacher, and counselor.

One of his greatest lifelong joys was to be involved in the ministry beginning at High Street Baptist Church, working with youth, The Proclaimers young married group, Super Seniors and most recently as Pastor of Holiday Island Baptist Church for the last 15 years.  He was also a hospice chaplain, police chaplain and served as a minister for many weddings, funerals, and other special events.

Services will be held on Monday, April 13, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Greenlawn Funeral Home East with burial to follow in Missouri Veterans Cemetery.  Visitation will be Sunday afternoon April 12, 2026, from 2 to 4 at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in his memory to Holiday Island Baptist Church, PO Box 3129, Holiday Island, AR 72631.