Mr. Johnny J. Ward, 74, of Dunnellon, passed away on Tuesday, April 4, 2017, at Legacy Hospice House.  Born in Beaumont, Texas, he grew up in California and Arkansas.  He and his wife moved to Dunnellon 11 years ago, coming here from Texas.

Mr. Ward was a retired mechanical engineer, having spent his entire career in the oil industry.  After receiving his bachelor’s degree from the University of Arkansas, he started a career that had him working in numerous overseas locations, including  Puerto Rico, Venezuela, and Nigeria.  During this career he worked for both Gulf Oil and Chevron.  After retirement he and his wife took their RV on a three year trip that took them to 49 of the 50 states.

After settling down in Dunnellon, he became very active at First Baptist Church in Dunnellon, serving there in many capacities, including Chairman of the Deacons, Dunnellon Christian School Committee, and the First Baptist Vision Team.  He was also active with the Marion Baptist Association, as well as serving with the Disaster Relief Team of the Florida Baptist Convention.  When he wasn’t busy with all of those activities, he also enjoyed a good round of golf.

Mr. Ward is survived by his wife of 52 years, LaVerne Ward, his son Clayton Ward (Jennifer), his daughter Adina Josey (Blaine), his brother Carl Holder, 6 grandchildren, and 2 great grandchildren.

He will be greatly missed.

Memorial services for Mr. Ward will be held at 11 AM Saturday, April 15, 2017, at First Baptist Church of Dunnellon, with Pastor Russ Randall officiating.