James Edward Ward 78 of Benton passed away on April 19, 2012 with his family by his side. He was born on January 19, 1934 to the late, Hollis Edward and Jessie Lee Ward in Calhoun City, Mississippi. James retired from the Bryant School District after 28 years of employment. He enjoyed working in his yard, gardening and going fishing. He was a member of Oak Grove Baptist Church. James most treasured times were spent with his family and he loved spoiling his grandbabies. Mr. Ward is preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Raymond and Joe Lee Ward. He is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Lorene Ward; one daughter, Loretta Kaye Daugherty and her husband, Ronald; two sons, Mike Ward and his wife, Sherry and Tony Ward and his wife, Susan; six grandchildren, Randy Ward, Brady Ward, Wendy Kay Parsons, Rebecca Williams, Sherri Burks and Ashley Blake; ten great grandchildren, Jacob, Tony, Cecilia, Hunter, Justin, Bianca, Logan, Evan, Zander and Mya; two sisters, Faye and Shirley; three brothers, Jerry, Ted and Roger and a host of nieces, nephews and friends who all loved him and will miss him dearly. A celebration of life will be held on Monday, April 23, 2012 at 1:00 PM at Dial and Dudley Funeral Home in Bryant. Visitation will be Sunday, April 22, 2012 from 2-4 PM at the funeral home. To sign James’s online guest book visit www.dialanddudleyfuneralhome.com.