William "Bill" Phillip Ward , a man whose laugh was as hearty as his dedication to his country, embarked on his final tour of duty to the great beyond on January 25th, 2024. Born in Chicago, Illinois on June 24th, 1950, Bill never missed a beat, from his early days in Illinois to his final salute in Glen Burnie, Maryland at 73 years young.

William was a lifelong learner and had an impressive educational background. He received his high school diploma in 1968 from D.T. Howard High School. He later earned a Bachelor's of Science degree in Management from Park College, a Master of Business Administration degree from Averett University, and his Certified Public Procurement Officer certification through the Universal Public Procurement Certification Council.

With a life that marched to the rhythm of service, William  spent a proud 25 years in the United States Marine Corps. He enlisted into the Marine Corps after completing high school and went on to become a Marine Corps officer.  Wearing the officer's bars for 12 years he eventually obtained the rank of Major. He defended freedom with the same vigor he used to defend his title as the family's mini golf champion—a true Marine in every sense.

After trading his uniform in for suits and ties, William became an expert in procurement, managing to procure a series of accolades along the way. William held various positions in his professional career, including Marine Corps Exchange Officer, Director of Procurement and Materials Management at the University of Central Missouri, Procurement and Contract Services Manager for the City of Lee's Summit, Missouri, Procurement and Contract Services Manager at the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration, Procurement Support Services Section Chief at the Maryland State Highway Administration, and finally Procurement Specialist II for the City of Baltimore from 2018 until the time of his passing.

William played as hard as he worked, enjoying a wide range of interests and hobbies. William's playlist was also as dynamic as his career—he loved the sound of Motown but could also be found jamming to hip hop. William took delight in watching live sports with his family, and visited many a stadium. He even took his sons to visit the NFL Hall of fame. When he was not listening to music or watching sports, you could find him watching a movie or attending a show. He loved Hamilton, seeing it multiple times both live and watching it on TV.  He had a passion for travel, recently jet-setting to Puerto Rico, and he could often be found in his off-hours with a model car or plane in one hand and a paintbrush in the other, proving that an old Marine can learn new tricks.

William was incredibly proud of his family. He leaves behind a loving wife Judith Ward, his children William Ward Jr, Wallace Ward, WaEuniqua Sims, and Wajoili Fletcher, eight grandsons and four granddaughters who will all miss their patriarch's larger-than-life presence. Preceded in his journey by his mom, Alberta Ward, William now has the best seat in the house to watch over his loved ones.

As William takes his final salute, we are reminded that every day is a gift—that's why it's called the present. His curtain may have closed on this world, but the encore of his legacy will play on forever in the hearts of those who loved him. Semper Fi, William. You've earned your rest.

A viewing will be held at A.L. Bennett and Son Funeral Home on Saturday, February 10, 2024, at 10:00 AM followed by a funeral service at 11:00 AM. The interment will be held privately.