Billy Ray Ward

BILLY RAY WARD, aged 72, passed away peacefully at his home in Pennsylvania on Sunday, January 12, 2025. He was born to the late William and Eunice Ward on July 27, 1952, in Wilson County, North Carolina. Billy was the second of eight children, and after the death of his baby brother, he became the only son. At the age of 11, he was baptized at Piney Grove Baptist Church in Wilson, North Carolina. Affectionately known as Bill, he began his education in Wilson, North Carolina. After his family moved to Baltimore, Maryland, he attended Clifton Junior High and Northern High School. In 1971, Bill enlisted in the United States Army and was stationed in Germany, where he served as a Motor Transport Operator, driving Army trucks. Following his honorable discharge after a three-year tour of duty, Bill pursued a 40-year career as a tractor-trailer truck driver, proudly following in his father’s footsteps. As a long-distance driver, he transported loads across the country, showcasing his dedication and skill on the road. In 1975, Bill and his longtime girlfriend, Muriel McPherson, were blessed with a son, Lloyd. In 1978, Bill married Robin Buchanan, and their union was enriched by the arrival of two daughters, Charmaine and Charlene. Years later, Bill entered a long-term relationship with Joyce Reaves, and together they welcomed a son, William (Will). On March 26, 2004, Bill married his best friend and soulmate, Patricia Eppes. He cherished her deeply, and they shared a profound love for each other, enjoying road trips together until her passing. Bill’s passion for trucks began at a young age, inspired by his father, who taught him how to drive trucks in North Carolina. As a boy, Bill would bend clothes hangers into makeshift steering wheels, use sticks or other objects as gear shifters, and line up chairs to serve as his “trailer,” with his sisters sitting in them as his “load”; for Bill, this was the ultimate fun—pretending to drive a tractor-trailer with a full haul. His love for trucks extended beyond play. As a child, he would walk to Highway 301 in Wilson, just to watch the trucks pass by. He spent hours signaling drivers with hand gestures, urging them to blow their horns. The thrill and excitement he felt with each honk were unforgettable. Later in life, Bill shared this passion and perspective with his oldest son. He would often say, “When you see a man in a truck, give him grace—he’s probably taking care of people.” This wisdom reflected his deep respect for the work and dedication of truck drivers, a respect rooted in his lifelong love of trucking. Bill was doted on by both his grandmother and mother, truly the apple of his mother’s eye. Growing up with all sisters, he often joked about his unique position in the family. When his parents announced the arrival of their last child, Bill declared, “If it’s a girl, I’m going in the military.” Sure enough, it was a girl, and he promptly joined the Army. Bill was a person with a comical and charismatic nature. The ladies adored him, and he returned the sentiment. A lifelong jokester, he had a knack for storytelling that left others crying with laughter or holding their jaws from laughing so hard. Known for his creativity, Bill was famous for giving people nicknames, like calling one of his daughters “Toot-Toot” and one his nephews “Left Lane,” among countless others. He was known for his signature sign-off, always closing with confidence “I’m Out!”. Bill loved a good time and was always the life of any gathering. His passion for music was evident, with Elton John and the Ohio Players being his favorites. He enjoyed football and proudly cheered on his favorite team, the Dallas Cowboys. One of Bill’s greatest joys was being a grandfather. His pride shone brightly as he talked about each of his grandchildren, often saying with a puffed-up chest, “They are very, very smart.” He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Eunice Ward; his brother, Ricky Ward; and his beloved wife of 19 years, Patricia Eppes-Ward. Billy leaves to cherish his memory his four loving children, Lloyd Ward (Lisa), Charmaine Ward, Charlene Buchanan and William Ward (Johneika); ten grandchildren, Lashia, Dante’, Cleveland, Lovely, De’Asia, Taylor, Morgan, Aubree, Falen and Kali; six sisters, Verona Flythe, Sandra Thornton (Alfred), Marilyn Gordan, Earline Ward, Sarah Francis and Tiffany Ward; four aunts, Eloise Fields, Isiarene Johnson, Faye and Mercy Leak; two uncles, Edward Leak (Pam) and Thomas Leak; devoted niece, Kimberly Jones; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends who shared in his joyful spirit.

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Billy Ray Ward

July 27, 1952 - January 12, 2025