Ernest Eldon Ward, age 81 of LaFollette, went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, January 14, 2017. He was born February 7, 1935 in Campbell County to the late Robey and Maudie McGhee Ward. Ernest was a member of Round Rock Baptist Church and a mason with Caryville Lodge F & AM #665. He enjoyed going to church, reading his  bible, hunting, fishing, and spending time with his family and friends, especially his grandkids. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by daughters, Marilyn Ward and Sharon Renae Bond; grandson, Tim Ward; and sister, Trula Kirby.  

Ernest is survived by his wife, Diana Cotton Ward; sons, Jerry Ward and wife, Rachel; Wayne Ward and wife, Cindy; Wendell Ward and wife, Denise; Daniel Ward and wife, Leslie; Jason Ward and wife, Stephanie; Johnathan Ward and wife, Kasie; daughters, Sonya Wilson and husband, Frank; Karen McKamey and husband, Chester; brothers, Clarence Ward and wife, Marie; Ralph Ward and wife, Geraldine; sisters, Nadine Byrge and husband, Bobby; Pauline Green; and  Evadean Daugherty and husband, James. Ernest was blessed with 24 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren. He is also survived by a host of nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends.

Visitation will be on Tuesday, January 17, 2017 from 5:00 to 8:00 PM in the chapel of Martin Wilson Funeral Home. The funeral will follow at 8:00 PM with Rev. Johnny Vanover and Rev. David Walker officiating. Family and friends will meet at 10:15 AM on Wednesday, January 18, 2017 at Martin Wilson Funeral Home and go in funeral procession to Powell Valley Memorial Gardens for an a 11:00 AM interment with military honors by the Campbell County Honor Guard.

Ernest Ward’s memorial page can be viewed at www.martinwilsonfuneralhome.com

Martin Wilson Funeral Home of LaFollette is in charge of arrangements and “Where families Matter Most”