Jeffrey Brian Ward was born August 30th, 1978 in Fort Smith, Arkansas and left his earthly home in Little Rock, Arkansas on May 28th, 2026.
Jeff was a man who filled every room he entered- not only with his towering stature, but because of his larger-than-life personality. Tough around the edges and unapologetically himself, Jeff approached life with a spirit of adventure. Those who love him knew that behind his rugged exterior was a generous heart, fierce loyalty, and a deep love for family and friends. Life with Jeff was never dull. He loved deeply, never missing an opportunity to make people laugh. Jeff leaves behind countless stories, cherished memories and a legacy of living life to the fullest.
Jeff was a 1996 graduate of Waldron High School and went on to become a Certified Welder at Tulsa Welding School. After earning his degree, Jeff took a job in Kansas City, Missouri and later worked for Paul Mueller Company in Springfield fabricating tanks. He would go on to join their field operations and traveled the United States installing and repairing industrial tanks. He enjoyed the travel and work so much that he decided to join the NTL (National Transient Lodge) of the Boilermakers Union. The NTL allowed Jeff to travel the US working on power plants and when it dissolved, he joined the local 83 Boilermakers out of Kansas City, MO. Jeff was incredibly proud of this work and went on to use his welding talents in many other capacities and places. Formal achievements include a CWI- Welding Inspector License and his CDL.
Among other things, Jeff loved fishing & hunting, time outdoors, the open road on a motorcycle, and the freedom of not always knowing where an adventure might lead. Jeff had a love for music. As a teenager, he played bass for a christian rock band called “Prodigal” who cut a record with Ardent Records. He was known for cooking barbeque and loved sharing it with any & everyone. Using his Grandfather-in-law’s smoker, Jeff went on to start Hungry Hog BBQ in Waldron. From there, Jeff combined his welding talents and love for cooking to build custom smokers and cooked for family, friends, and the homeless.
Jeff would be so touched by the outpouring of love his family has experienced. Your love and support will never be forgotten. Jeff loved his Lord & Savior and we are thankful for the promise to be reunited with him again.
Jeff leaves behind two incredible sons, Matthew and Joseph, whom Jeff considered his greatest accomplishments in life. His wife, Laura and step-daughter Audrey of Little Rock. Parents Mark and Karen Ward of Parks, AR. His brother Willie Ward of Waldron, AR (nephews: Looper, Kaden, Reese, nieces: Emily & Ivori). His sister Kelli Jo Hall & husband John of Huntington, AR (nieces Riley & Piper). His brother Dillon Ward and wife Andrea of Waldron, AR (nieces: Addison & Lilah Mae, nephew: Brooks). Grandmothers Opal Mae Nelson (Parks, AR) and Marion Ward (Waldron, AR). Grandfather Charles Maxwell. His Mother-in-law Joann Black. Cousin and life-long friend, Travis May. The mother of his sons and life-long friend, Amy. As well as Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, family and friends. Jeff’s absence will be deeply felt by all who shared their life with him.
Jeff was preceded in death by his cousin & friend Jamie “Shiner” May, his Pappy Johnie Ray Ward, Papa Bill Rogers & Grandmother Juanita Ward. His Uncle Steve Ward, Aunt Bonnie May, Great Grandparents Looper & Helen Nelson, and Great Grandparents Maurice “Pete” & Lorene May.
Services include a public visitation at Heritage Memorial Chapel in Waldron, AR 72958) on Thursday, June 4th, 2026 from 4:00-7:00PM (CST) and a Celebration of Life service led by Konnor McKay & Travis May at Waldron Pentecostal Church of God (West HWY 80, Waldron, AR 72958) at 2:00. Interment will follow in the Cedar Creek Cemetery in Cedar Creek, Arkansas.
