John A. Ward

Dr. John (Jack) Ward, a beloved family physician and pillar of the Houston community for over six decades, passed away peacefully. Born on April 9, 1930, in Scottsdale, Arizona, Dr. Ward served his country as a Navy Veteran during World War II. After his service, he made Houston his home for 66 years.

Dr. Ward was a man of dedication and education. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Baylor University, where he was a member of the Kappa Sigma social fraternity. He continued his studies at the University of Texas for graduate work before receiving his medical degree from Kansas City University Medical School. Notably, he was recognized for his achievements by being elected Alumnus of the Year in 1989 and receiving the Alumnus Service Award in 2007 by Kansas City University Medical School. He was also a member of the Phi Chi medical fraternity.

Dr. Ward devoted 40 years to serving the Houston community as a family physician. His compassion and expertise made him a trusted healthcare provider for generations of families. In addition to his private practice, he generously volunteered his time as the team physician for various area high schools.

Dr. Ward's legacy extends far beyond his medical practice. He was a highly respected member of the medical community. He actively participated in both the American Medical Association and the Texas Medical Association. He considered receiving his gold pin for lifetime membership of 50 years in the Texas Medical Association a particular point of pride. Furthermore, his expertise and dedication were recognized by his fellowship and Lifetime membership in the American Academy of Family Practice.

Dr. Ward's generosity extended beyond medicine. He was a member of several philanthropic organizations including the 100 Club of Police and Firefighters and served as president of the Community Hospital Foundation of Houston.

When not serving his community, Jack was an avid outdoorsman. He loved fishing and hunting, often returning to his beloved Arizona to pursue these passions. His skill was evident in his collection of Boone and Crockett Awards. He harbored a secret desire to avoid work altogether, jokingly claiming he would do so if he could find a way to support himself!

Another passion of Jack's was reading. After retiring, he meticulously read and rated over 2,000 books, keeping a detailed record of his literary journey. Jack had been a long-standing member of St. Ignatius of Loyola Catholic Church of Spring, Texas.

During medical school, Jack met the love of his life Jeanette Kristynik. Together, they shared 66 years of marriage and countless adventures traveling the world.

Jack is survived by his wife, Jeanette. He leaves behind a loving legacy through his four daughters, Traci Stalcup and husband Larry, Kelli Gibbins and husband Robert, Kristi Stephens and husband Jeff, and Kori Randle and husband John. His nine grandchildren Chase, Ashlee, Lexi, Garrett, Jackson, Greyson, Grant, Connor and Cami and one great-grandchild Belle, knew him affectionately as "Papa Doc".

Jack was preceded in death by his parents, Edward Ward and Anne Tracy Ward along with his brother, Gene Ward. Jack took his celestial non-stop flight to Paradise on May 26, 2024.

The funeral will be held at St. Ignatius of Loyola located at 7810 Cypresswood Drive, Spring, Texas 77379 on Thursday, June 13, 2024, at 11:00 am and will be live streamed at: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVKpDmNvHv1YffUAysrlyNQ