Melvin Lewis Ward, age 72, passed away on Monday, November 4, 2024, at 1:50 p.m. at St Rita's Medical Center in Lima, Ohio.  He was born on August 28, 1952, to James Bernard and Asilee (O'Neal) Ward in Lima, Ohio.  Both parents preceded him in death.

He was a retired substitute teacher in the Lima City Schools.  Melvin was a veteran of the United States Navy.   He was a member of Fourth Street Missionary Baptist Church.  Melvin enjoyed reading and learning.  His favorite pastime was "bossing his sisters".

He leaves to cherish his memory:  1 son:  Michael (Ryan) Jackson of Atlanta, GA and 1 daughter:  Alishia Ward of Washington, D.C.  2 grandchildren.  5 sisters:  Mildred Steward; Myrtle (Rufus) Johnson; Mary "Jana" Williamson; Marcia Henderson; and Marlene Smith, all of Lima, OH.  A host of nieces, nephews, and other family members and friends.

He is preceded in death by 3 brothers:  James O'Neal, Morris D. Ward, and Michael E. Ward.    1 sister:  Willa Mae O'Neal.

Home Going Services will be held on Saturday, November 16, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. at Jones-Clark Funeral Home with Rev. Dr. Dennis Ward officiating.

Visitation/Wake will be held Saturday, November 16, 2024, at 9:00 a.m. until the time of service, also at the Funeral Home.

Interment:  Woodlawn Cemetery

Services entrusted to:  JONES-CLARK FUNERAL HOME, INC.

To order flowers and offer condolences to the WARD Family visit www.jonesclarkfuneralhome.com