Cecil Grady Ward, 85, of Hudson, NC, passed away peacefully on the evening of October 23, 2024, at Amorem Hospice campus in Hudson after an extended illness. Born on November 3, 1938, Cecil was the twelfth of thirteen children born to the late William Lorenzo and Maude Tester Ward. He retired from Bernhardt Furniture in 2005 and was a member of Fellowship Baptist Church.
Cecil loved his family deeply and established an image of stability and love for the many who survive him and will follow his example. Cecil was blessed to be surrounded by his immediate family at his passing, a moment of joy and peace in Christ.
Cecil is survived by Peggy Watson Ward, his loving wife of 67 years; his daughter, Ginger and husband Rick Haynes of Hickory; his son, Brad Ward and wife Summer Black of Granite Falls; and his grandchildren, Steven Haynes and husband Michael Hargett of Charlotte, Mandy and husband Zach Spencer of Hickory, and Zoë and husband Kaiser Isbell of Hickory. Cecil was also a loving great-grandfather to Addie, Brayden, Colin, and Drake Spencer.
Cecil is also survived by his loving sister, Eleanor and husband Vernon Gragg of Lenoir, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family.
Graveside rites will be held on Monday, October 28, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at Woodlawn Memorial Gardens in Lenoir, officiated by Reverend James Hamby.
Mackie Funeral Service and Cremations is assisting the family. An online guestbook is available for friends and family at www.mackiefh.com.
Peggy, Ginger, and Brad,
I am so very sorry to hear of Mr. Cecil’s passing. I just learned of it this evening. He was such a good man who always had a smile. I will miss his spirit.
To Peggy, Ginger, Brad and your respective families, to say we are sorry does not mean nearly enough. We will always have such fond and loving memories of Cecil. His quick wit and humor he often shared will never be forgotten. The world truly lost someone very special.
We love you all!
Steve and Terry Shaw
I’m so sorry for your loss. I remember the days when Mom and Dad would go to bowling with Peggy and Cecil, and will never forget the nights they would get together to play cards. These memories will forever be in my thoughts. My thoughts and prayers are with the family.
My condolences to Peggy, Brad and the entire family. Cecil was a good man, always supporting his family, offering words of encouragement and making a positive impact on everyone he met. He will be missed. Praying for peace and comfort for you all. I’m there if you need anything.