Ronald Joe Ward

Ronald Joe Ward “Ronnie” left his earthly home peacefully in to the arms of Jesus on Friday, December 6, 2024 in Nowata, Oklahoma. Ronnie was born on October 17, 1946 to William Henry and Vina Ward. Ronnie grew up in Wagoner, Oklahoma where he was best friends with Otis (Odie) Thomas. They have remained life long friends. Ronnie graduated from Wagoner High School and completed some college. He went on to spend six years in the Oklahoma Army National Guard. 

Ronnie was a hard worker from a very young age. Beginning in High School at the local grocery store and at his uncle’s bait shop. Later he worked at Thomas & Betts for many years until they relocated out of state. He then took his last job at Kimberly Clark where he retired after 20 years. Ronnie continued his strong work ethic and always arrived 30 minutes early. He cherished the many friends he made during his time there. 

Ronnie enjoyed watching the History Channel and documentaries. But most of all he enjoyed studying anything to do with space, especially asteroids. He had a passion for studying Bible prophecy. He loved to study the Book of Revelations over and over. His co-workers mentioned that he was often found reading his Bible on his breaks. His family and grandchildren meant everything to him. He treasured the holidays, especially Christmases spent with them. Ronnie loved all animals but, especially his beloved dogs Odie and Teddy Bear. 

He met the love of his life and married Judy on May 16, 1998 in Eureka Springs, Arkansas surrounded by family and friends. They were true soul mates with many things in common. They enjoyed going to church, concerts, traveling, spoiling their pets, and just spending time at home together. 

Ronnie is preceded in death by his parents William Henry and Vina Ward; two brothers William “Taylor” and Charles Alvis Ward; and grandson Trevor Mark Hagins. 

Ronnie is survived by his best friend and loving wife Judy Ward of the home; three grown children that he inherited from Judy, Stacy and Brandon Hagins of Shamrock, Oklahoma; Jeremy and Lisa Witherspoon of Colorado Springs, Colorado; Amy and Jon Bieker of Joplin, Missouri; nine grandchildren, Samantha “Sammy” and Shay Stout of Derby, Kansas; Marshall Witherspoon of Missouri; Rayanna Witherspoon of Chandler, Oklahoma; Connor and Lilly Bieker of Monterey, California; Kailey and Trenton Hagins of Shamrock, Oklahoma; Shelby and Wesley Bieker of Joplin, Missouri; Sunshine “Sunny” Witherspoon of Colorado Springs, Colorado; great granddaughters Blakelee and Braelyn Stout of Derby, Kansas; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends whose relationships he treasured.

 Ronnie’s Celebration of Life Service will be held Friday, December 13, 2024 at 2:00 PM at Wayside Chapel, 367306 East 5700 Road, Terlton, Ok 74081 with nephew Patrick Ward officiating. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to St Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Turning Point, Dr. David Jeremiah Ministries. 

To leave an online condolence, visit www.honoringmemoriesnowata.com. Online condolences may be left at www.honoringmemoriesnowata.com or on the funeral home Facebook page. Arrangements are in the care of Benjamin Funeral Home of Nowata, OK.