Steven L. Ward

He was born on February 26, 1965 in Sacramento, California. He was the third child of Therald and Susan Ward of Signal Mountain, TN. He learned early in life the importance of family, and was a devoted son, husband, father, grandfather, and friend. Steve graduated from Elsik High School in Alief, Texas in 1982. Shortly thereafter he served faithfully as a full-time missionary for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, laboring among the people of Fresno, California. He graduated from Brigham Young University with a degree in Business Finance and a minor in Accounting. While at BYU he was a long distance swimmer and loved playing competitive racquetball. He went on to earn a Masters Degree in Business Administration from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga.

He was the owner and founder of Sun Construction, and built an enduring reputation of quality and honesty. Steve met his eternal companion, Deseret Smartt Ward, at BYU and they were sealed for time and all eternity in the Salt Lake City Temple. They were married for 34 years. They loved each other deeply and showed this each day through their actions and words. They are true soulmates and will be joyfully reunited after this life. Steve and Deseret are blessed with six children, three daughters-in law, two sons-in law, and ten grandchildren. Steve was an active and dedicated Father and Husband. One of his many passions was coaching his children in sporting activities, or watching them compete in swimming, wrestling, baseball, football, or other activities. When he wasn’t working or serving in the Church, he loved spending time on the water with family and friends, or relaxing at home with his wife. Steve cheerfully accepted many Church callings and served faithfully as a Branch President, Young Mens President, High Counselor, Teacher, and Minister. He touched countless lives and blessed each with his witness of the Savior, the infinite Atonement, and Gospel of redemption. He was a gifted teacher and student of the scriptures. He taught his children and grandchildren the Gospel of Jesus Christ and strived to live by its precepts each day. Despite suffering the ravages of cancer for over five years, Steve never complained. He put others comfort and happiness first. He repeatedly taught others that his life was in the hands of the Lord, and it was “His will” that mattered in the end. The family is grateful for the many doctors, nurses, and care takers that showed such compassion and devotion. The family wants to extend a special thanks to his oncologist, Dr. Davey Daniel, for the exceptional care that he provided.

Steve is survived by his wife, Deseret, six children (Tyler, Lauren, Jared, Alex, Katherine, and Anna), and ten grandchildren. Steve will be deeply missed by all that knew him, but we know that we will be together again.

The funeral service will be held on Wednesday, October 6, 2021 at 10 am at the Signal Mountain Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 1160 Ridgeway Ave, Signal Mountain, TN 37377, with Elder Richard G. Youngblood officiating. Due to the current pandemic, the family requests that those in attendance wear a mask.

The family will receive friends from 6 – 8 pm, Tuesday, October 5, 2021, at the North Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you kindly consider a donation to Signal Mountain Social Services: https://signalmountainsocialservices.org/

Please share your thoughts and memories online at www.ChattanoogaNorthChapel.com

Arrangements by Chattanooga Funeral Home, North Chapel, 5401 Highway 153, Hixson, TN 37343.