Donald "Don" Wayne Ward

Donald "Don" Wayne Ward, 77, passed away peacefully July 21, 2026, after a long illness. Originally of Hixson, TN, Don had most recently made his home in Ooltewah.

​Don was born in Guntersville, AL, July 14, 1949, to Jeff and Martha Leslie Ward. Though he was the oldest of five brothers born in Alabama, he was raised in Chattanooga. He graduated from Central High School in 1967, where he was an award-winning member of the ROTC rifle team.

​Following graduation, Don began working for DuPont. In 1968, he married the love of his life, Barbara Durham, and proudly enlisted in the United States Air Force. He served four years in the Strategic Air Command during the Vietnam War. Upon completing his military service in 1972, Don returned to DuPont, where he dedicated 48 years of hard work before retiring.

​Don was a skilled marksman from his ROTC days and had a lifelong passion for nature, spending countless quiet mornings hunting and fishing. He especially cherished sharing those special outdoors experiences with his son, Brian.

​Don was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 50 years, Barbara Durham Ward; his parents, Jeff and Martha Leslie Ward; and his grandparents.

​He is survived by his son, Brian Ward; his loving life partner of 7 years, Jeanette Ramsey Huddleston; his four brothers, Bobby (Lorelei) Ward, George (Vicki) Ward, Garry Ward, and Allan Ward; along with several nieces, nephews, and extended family.

​A gathering of family and friends to celebrate Don's life will be held on Saturday, August 1, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Bayside Baptist Church.

A private interment service with military honors will be held at a later date at Chattanooga National Cemetery.

​In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Kidney Foundation, the American Cancer Society, or a charity of your choice.

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