Obituary for William "Bill" Ward, Sr.
January 2, 1950 – June 11, 2025

William "Bill" Ward, Sr., age 75, a decorated veteran, devoted husband, father, and grandfather, passed away on June 11, 2025, surrounded by the family he loved fiercely. A Purple Heart recipient and proud serviceman, Bill lived a life shaped by courage, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to those he cared for.

Born on January 2, 1950, Bill served with distinction in both the United States Marine Corps and the United States Army. He fought bravely in the Vietnam War, where he was wounded in combat and awarded the Purple Heart. He held the rank of E5 Corporal in the Marines and later served as an E6 Staff Sergeant in the Army. Bill was a leader who earned the respect of all who served beside him.

After his military service, Bill returned to Camden, Arkansas, working as a young police officer. Later, he moved to Los Angeles, where he served as a private investigator and eventually worked in private security in Culver City. Whether in uniform or civilian life, Bill never stopped protecting others.

Though he lived with the unseen scars of war and endured the lifelong effects of PTSD, Bill's love for his family never wavered. He was a steady presence, known for his strength, his dry sense of humor, and his deep loyalty.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Rodita; his children, Mary, Will, and Joe; and his grandchildren, Honna and Adrien. His family was his pride, and his legacy lives on through them.

Funeral Mass will be on Thursday June 26, 2025, at 02:15 p.m. at Our Lady of Perpetual Help- 929 Harvard Avenue Clovis, CA 93612 with a public viewing the same date at 3:30 p.m. at Clovis Funeral Home - 1302 Clovis Ave, Clovis, CA, 93612.  There will be a farewell dinner to follow for William's friends and family at 7:30 p.m. - 2148 N. Redda Road Fresno, California 93737

He will be laid to rest with full military honors on Friday, June 27, 2025, at 1:00 PM at Riverside National Cemetery in Riverside, California.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in Bill's name to his loved ones via Venmo: BillyWard1 or Zelle: 559-312-0049

William "Bill" Ward, Sr. served his country with valor and his family with love. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.