Charles Earl Ward
September 11, 1948 ~ March 11, 2026
Charles Earl Ward, of Conroe, Texas, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, the 11th day of March 2026, at the age of 77. He was born in Dallas, Texas, on the 11th day of September 1948 to parents Edward Ward and Lahoma Donaldson Ward.
Charles was a 1967 graduate of Athens High School and served in the United State Navy during the Vietnam War. After serving in the military, he returned and worked for GE Electric in Tyler for 16 years. He later changed his career path and retired from T.D.C.J. after many years of dedication.
Charles was a Christian and a member of Bois D'Arc Baptist Church. He volunteered his time and talents to help wherever needed, whether at church or other civic organizations. Charles' devotion was most evident at home where he provided exceptional care for his wife, remaining her steady rock and primary support through every stage of her medical treatments.
A true handyman of the old school, Charles possessed a rare patience and skill. He took immense pride in having built his own home by hand, relying on a hammer and hard work, and famously refusing to ever use a nail gun. He will be remembered for his strong hands, his kind heart, and the sturdy foundations he built for his family.
In addition to his parents, Charles was preceded in death by his brother Johnny Morris.
He leaves behind his wife of 58 years, Beth Pierce Ward; daughter, Charlya Elizabeth Ward; son, Charles "David" Ward; sisters, Bernice Harris (Tommy), and Kathy Battenfield (Ron); brothers, Ed Ward (Michael Martin), and Allen Goolsby (Andea). Charles will also be dearly missed by his grandchildren, Braeden Silver, Michael Ward, John Ward; and his great-grandchildren, Elisa Ward and Ezra Ward; along with other family members and many friends.
Visitation will be held from six o'clock until eight o'clock in the evening on Monday, the 16th day of March 2026 at Rhone Funeral Home.
Funeral services to honor Charles Ward's life are to be conducted at one o'clock in the afternoon on Tuesday, the 17th day of March 2026 in the Rhone Memorial Chapel with Bro. Mike Drinkard officiating the service. Immediately following, a graveside service with Military Honors will be held at Liberty Cemetery in Bradford, Texas.
Those honored to serve as pallbearers are Brad Pierce, Braeden Silver, John Ward, Michael Ward, Todd Costlow, and Josh Pierce.
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Addie, I’m sending condolences and prayers for you and family. May God comfort you.
Charles was such a kind person. Our brother , Johnny, used to say that Charles was a peacemaker. He enjoyed family and friends and never met a stranger. He was so patient. Long before I started to school, he taught me how to write my name. I bet I wrote I my name 50 times and each time he would praise my efforts. Another tender memory was when he found me crying on Granny’s porch. He asked what was wrong and I bellowed out”I can’t swing on the swing set!” He said come with me and within 3 minutes he had taught me the secret to tuck my legs back then straighten them when going forward. At the time it was a simple lesson on how to swing. Now I realize how much he loved me and was willing to take the time to show me I was important to him. Go now my precious brother for you have earned your glorious place in Heaven.
Always in my heart,
Kathy
One of my very favorite people. Loved him so much! I love you Addie. Prayers for you all!
I met Charles shortly after I met his daughter, and in a way that’s when my life with him started too. He was there when our son Braeden was born, standing in the background, steady and present. For the last 22 years, he has been a big part of Braeden’s life, not with big speeches or grand gestures, but with quiet presence and consistent love.
When his daughter and I divorced, Charles never stopped being my friend. He kept in touch, sent pictures, checked in, and made it clear that the relationship he had with me and with Braeden didn’t end just because the marriage did. That kind of loyalty is rare. He didn’t talk about it; he just lived it.
Charles was quiet, soft spoken, and always kind and giving. He had a warm, big heart that showed up in a thousand small ways—helping, listening, sharing, and simply being there when it mattered. He never needed the spotlight, and most of the world will probably never know his name, but his family and friends will feel his absence every day.
We’ll remember the man who loved his grandson deeply, who stayed a friend even when it would have been easy to drift away, and who moved through this world gently, with more heart than words. He may not be known by many, but to us, he will always matter!
Charles was the best friend a person could ask for . I was friends with him and Addie since we were in 6th grade at Athens Elementary . I will miss our monthly phone calls .
I called him Bubba. He called me Titter. I love you, Charles & Addie.
Love,
PeeWee
Charles and Addie were good friends and involved with two of my life’s major decisions. First, after high school, Charles and I enlisted in the Navy together. Second, after coming home from the service four years later, they introduced me to Dianne to whom I am still married. Charles was the best of the best. His family can be proud.
Addie, you and your family are in our prayers.
Dayton and Dianne Thomas
Addie, we had some great, fun times with you and Charles! We still remember you coming to base and they weren’t going to let you on! Your tears and southern charm won them over and you were reunited with your Charles!!
Joe and Dolly Mercer