Obituary of Joe Henry Ward

On July 29, 2023, Joe Henry Ward, 76, was called to his forever mountain home. In the presence of family, Joe Henry passed away peacefully at Harris Regional Hospital in the early morning hours. A steadfast part of his life for over fifty years, Joe Henry is survived by his cherished wife, Robbie Ward. The two had four children, Tina Marie Willyard (Raymond), Stella Vaughn, Patricia Lynn Ward, Joseph William Ward; as well as 13 grandchildren and 17 great-grand-children. He is also survived by his sister, Radaka Baker Williams of Easley, SC. A retiree of the CSX Railroad Company, Joe Henry settled in his home town of Whittier, NC, where he was an active businessman and farmer. He was preceded in death by his two parents, Joseph and Geraldine Ward. Joe Henry will forever be remembered as a fierce protector of his wife, his family, and the mountain community he called home. Joe Henry’s life will be celebrated on Saturday, August, 5th. Visitation is at 10am at Crisp Funeral Home in Bryson City, NC, with an 11am service to follow in the funeral home chapel. He will then be laid to rest at Bumgarner Cemetery in Whittier, NC.