Rudolph Ward

Doc attended LSU with a scholarship for baseball and was drafted to war in Korea before graduation. He was the loan officer of Louisiana National Bank before working for Altex Concrete where he stood as the VP for seven years. Doc was also in the bar and restaurant business opening the Branding Iron BBQ, Tommy Scotts, and Cooley’s Bar. Earlier in life he started Gaye’s Antiques with his beloved wife of 64 years, Betty Gaye "Gammy" Ward, who accompanied him through sickness and in health until her passing in 2019. Doc founded Docs Laundry & Linen in 1960. As an avid outdoorsman, Doc loved to deer hunt and never missed an opportunity to be in the woods chasing that next big buck. He also continued his love of athletics later in life as he played recreational softball and even played in the Senior Olympics. Doc was a member of Jefferson Baptist Church and First Baptist Church for many years.

Doc was survived by two sons, Chris Ward(Kathy) and Cary Ward; five grandchildren, Tommy Ward(Isha), Mechelle Ashford(Jeremy), Hunter Ward, Jeremy Ward, and Duston Lauret; two great grandchildren, Brelynn Vulgamore and Lawson Ashford; his brother Melvin Ward (Marilyn); and many nieces and nephews.

Doc was preceded in death by his parents; loving wife; and three brothers, Eddie, Tommy, and Benny Ward.

He was a business man, a godly man, a people’s person, a legend and a pioneer in the laundry business, and a kind-hearted jokester. Doc was the purest exemplification of goodwill. His generosity, selflessness, humor, and charismatic spirit will forever live on in the hearts of everyone who was blessed enough to know him.

Visitation will be held at Greenoaks Funeral Home & Memorial Park (9595 Florida Blvd, Baton Rouge, LA 70815) on Wednesday, October 26 from 9:00 – 11:00am followed by a memorial service starting at 11:00am. Please visit www.greenoaksfunerals.com to leave condolences to the family.