It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather, uncle, cousin and friend, Christopher Ray Ward, who left us on March 9, 2025.

Or maybe not. We are all waiting for him to step in the room and yell, “Gotcha! I can’t believe y’all fell for that one!”

He was the type of person who always had a joke ready, even in the toughest of times, and his laughter was a comfort to all who knew him. His sense of humor was his superpower, and he used it not just to entertain, but to make people feel seen and valued. He had an uncanny ability to turn any day into one worth remembering, and his warmth and generosity made every person he encountered feel special. His laughter was infectious, and his genuine care for others was a cornerstone of who he was.

But beyond his humor, Chris was a deeply compassionate soul. He was a man who lived with humor in his heart and a laugh that could light up any room. His wit was as sharp as his love for making others smile, and no matter the situation, he could always find a way to make those around him feel lighter, brighter, and loved. Whether he was cracking a joke, pulling a playful prank, or simply checking in to make sure someone was doing okay, Chris had a way of making everyone feel like they mattered. He had a supernatural ability to show up just when you needed him most, always with a joke to lift your spirits or a smile that could brighten the darkest of days. His selflessness knew no bounds, and his ability to lift others up was one of the many reasons he was so dearly loved.

He is survived by his loving wife, Debra , son Michael, daughter-in-love Maisie, two beautiful grandchildren, Emmie and Ellie, sister Cyndy McDevitt, niece Caitlin Mitchell (Marcus), sister-in-love Shawn, brother-in-love JK Homer (Dan), cousin John Parrish (Kris) with their children JW, Jake, and Josh, best friend Vince (Tanya), beloved pup Miss Olive Riley and too many friends to list, who will continue to carry his memory with them every day. He was predeceased by his father Joe, mother Lynda, sister Cathy, aunt Judi, cousin Jeff and grandparents.

A celebration of his life will be held on March 17 at Beck Funeral Home from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, where we invite everyone to share their favorite memories, laughs, and stories of a man who truly lived to make others smile.

As we say goodbye, we can almost hear his voice saying, "You didn’t really think I was gone, did you?" We will forever miss your laughter, your kindness, and the light you brought into our lives. Rest in peace, my love, and may your spirit continue to brighten the world in your own special way.