Ray Willard Ward, 82, of Richmond Hill, GA, went home to be with the Lord on February 22, 2021.

He served in the U.S. Navy and loved his country.  Ray retired from Savannah Electric & Power Company after 37 years.  He was an active member of Bethel Baptist Church in Richmond Hill.

Family was his legacy, he loved and cared for them dearly.

Ray was preceded in death by a daughter, Sherry Ward Buttimer; parents, Olin & Gertrude Ward; brothers, Louis Ward and Wilson Ward.

He is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Mary; daughter, Joanie Ward Steptoe (Ric); son-in-law, Tommy Buttimer; grandchildren, Tyler Steptoe, Michael Buttimer (Crystal) and Ray Buttimer (Melisa); sister, Fran Twomey (Jim); great-grandchildren, Thomas Buttimer, IV and Nathan Buttimer; several nieces, nephews, and his sweet puppy dog, Henry.

Memorial services will be private and a public "Celebration of Life" service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to: Bethel Baptist Church Building Fund, P.O. Box 245, Richmond Hill, GA 31324.