William Anthony Ward, son of the late Mark Anthony and Bertha Wright Ward, was born in Atlanta, Georgia on September 16, 1941.  He grew up in Sale City, Mitchell County, Georgia during the early years of his life.

After relocating to Albany, Georgia with his family, he attended the public schools of Dougherty County, including Monroe High School and graduated in 1958.  William  continued his education at Albany State College where he played in the marching band.  Ready to serve his country, he enlisted in the United States Army and served with distinction and received an honorable discharge at the close of his tour of duty.  Having developed a strong desire during his earlier years to gain industrial technical skills, William enrolled in the Atlanta Area Vocational School  where he completed both the welding and drafting programs.

A man of faith and belief in Christ Jesus, William attended Bethel A.M.E. Church.  He dearly loved the Lord and remained steadfast, prayerful, and unmovable throughout life's  journey.

In 1971 he was united in holy matrimony to Loretta Robinson.  Their union endured for 50 years as they honored their vows to love and cherish each other.  As a husband, father, and grandfather, he took great care in providing unconditionally for his family.  He was an incredibly skilled  self-employed welder  who diligently utilized his talents in the industry until his demise.

William wore many hats during his lifetime.  He founded the Metropolitan Atlanta Amateur Radio Society (M.A.A.R.S.) which consisted of Black amateur radio (ham) operators.  The group participated in the annual Martin Luther King Day parade and also provided scholarships to young men in the local area.  William  was very proud of the accomplishments of the organization and being able to speak with people all over the world.  Not only was he passionate about  M.A.A.R.S., but he loved music and played several instruments, including the piano; had a keen interest in computers; was a history buff—especially Black history; often shared his political views; and he enjoyed gardening.

On February 2, 2022, William transitioned from this earthly life in Atlanta, Georgia at the hallowed age of 80.   In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Veetrice Prater.

Cherished memories will forever remain with his beloved wife, Loretta Ward; three daughters, Gloria Lockhart of Albany, GA, Sophia (Ron) Cherry of Tampa, FL, and Shurina (Ronson) Jones of Atlanta, GA; grandchildren, Alexis Cherry, Ronald Cherry II, Shavika Prater, Masceana Prater, Christina Jones, Justin Jones, and Brooke Jones; great-grandchildren, Michael Prater, Knyla Lee Prater, and Knevah Prater; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.