Larry Michael Ward

Larry Michael “Mike” Ward, age 65, of Fairborn, Ohio passed away peacefully on June 13th, 2025, at the Hospice Center in Dayton, Ohio, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Mike was born on September 7th, 1959, in Pike County, Kentucky, and was the beloved son of the late Alvin and Mary (Schoolcraft) Ward of Phelps, Kentucky.  In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, William Douglas Ward, sister, Joyce Carol (Loving) – Plymale, and a niece, Serena Ward.

He was a proud graduate of Pikeville College and the University of Kentucky.  Mike served his country with honor for 27 years in the United States Air Force at Wright – Patterson Air Force Base as an engineer, stationed in Fairborn, Ohio.  After retiring from military service, he found joy and fulfillment working on his farm in Xenia, Ohio.

Mike was a gentle soul – kindhearted, deeply loved, and cherished by all who knew him.  He loved his family fiercely and held a strong and devoted faith in his Savior, Jesus Christ.  He was a member of the Church of God Faith. 

He is survived by his sister, Wanda Gail (Ward) Wolford of Omar, W.Va., his brother, Terry Lee Ward of Fairborn, OH; nieces, Wanica (Shannon) Lell of Chapmanville, W.Va, Maryann Ward of Salem, IN and nephew, Mitchell “Mickey” Lester of Phelps, KY; great-nephews, Christopher (Cassy) Lell and Michael Lell, both of Chapmanville, W.Va; great-niece, Kelly Ward of Salem IN, and a host of extended family members and dear friends who will continue to cherish his memory.

Visitation will be held on Thursday June 19th, 2025, from 11:00 A.M. – 1:00 P.M. at the Kimper Church of God with funeral services immediately following at 1:00 P.M. officiated by Pastors Robert Coleman & Eddie Dotson. 

Mike will be laid to rest at the Ward Family Cemetery in Phelps, KY with family and friends serving as pallbearers.

Mike’s life was a testament to love, service, and faith.  His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Jones & West Funeral Home of Phelps, Kentucky is honored to serve the Ward Family.  Our guestbook may be viewed online at www.joneswestfh.com.

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