Ralph Nelson Ward was born on October 5, 1955, in Andrews, Texas, and passed away on Thursday, October 29, 2020 in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. Ralph moved to Walthall County at age 6 and graduated from Salem High School in 1973. He served in the U.S. Navy before working offshore for 15 years. He then worked as a chicken farmer so that he could be home more for his wife and children. Ralph was a loving husband, father, and friend to many people. He never met a stranger, and always loved with an open heart. He was a true man of God who always put faith first. Ralph will be missed and loved by all.

He is preceded in death by his Father, Eddie "Peanut" Ward; his Mother, Verda Faye Griffin Stiles; and brothers, Billy Ward, Mack Wallace, L.C. Wallace, and Henry Wallace.

He is survived by his wife of 33 years, Reba Ward; his sons, Adam Ward (Katie), Billy Ward (Cindy), Clint Ward, and Cade Turnage; his brothers, Mark Stiles, Marlin Wallace, Paul Wallace; his sisters, Barbara Cooper, Carolyn Payne, Yvonne Tullos; and a host of nieces, nephews, and other family members.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00am on Wednesday, November 4, 2020, at Hathorn Funeral Home in Columbia. Visitation will be held from 5:00-9:00pm on Tuesday, November 3, 2020, at Hathorn Funeral Home. Interment will be at Oak Grove Apostolic Church Cemetery in Foxworth. Rev. Felix Arnold and Bro. Burl Livingston will officiate.

Pallbearers will be Adam Ward, Billy Ward, Clint Ward, Cody Ward, Jay Price, and Samuel Peak.

Hathorn Funeral Home in Columbia is in charge of the arrangements. Family and friends may sign an online guestbook at www.hathornfuneralhome.com.