Michael James Ward, age 68, of Kinston, passed away Tuesday, November 28, 2023, at Pruitt Health. He was preceded in death by his parents, Howard Virgil Ward and Marolyn Jean Shafley; his sister Cherrie Smith; and his grandmother Minnie Mae Orr; and his dogs Trooper, Harley, Banjo, and Gizmo.

Michael served in the U.S. Air Force. He retired from Ed Phillips Heating and AC & Plumbing.

Michael is survived by his wife Linda Hoover Ward of the home; sons James Ward of Spring Lake, NC, and Brandon Scott Ward and his wife Misty of Kinston; grandchildren Mia Ward, Zoe Ward, Lea Ward, Ali Ward, Sydaleigh Ward, Novaleigh Ward, Kenzie Ward, and Brier Ward; his sisters Lynda Dawson and Kathy Spence and husband Horace of Kinston; several nieces and nephews.

A special thank you to Pruitt Health for their special attention and assistance.

Graveside services will be held Thursday, November 30, 2023, at 11 am at Pinelawn Memorial Park with Rick Vernon officiating. The family will be receiving friends at home.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Lenoir County SPCA.