Thomas Eugene Ward

Thomas Eugene Ward was born June 10, 1925 to Eddie and Anna Lillian Ward in Marion Indiana. Tom had three siblings who predeceased him in death, Patricia, Lois, and John. Tom lived in San Diego, Ca., for over 50 years. He said, "I didn't go any place cold on purpose." When he met Phyllis, leaving beautiful San Diego he said, "Phyllis is the purpose."

When he was 18 years old, Tom received papers advising him that he had been draft ed. He had just graduated from high school. He was extremely disappointed because he planned to attend college to become a doctor. God had other plans for his life. After being given the choice of which branch of the service, he decided to enlist in the Navy. Tom enjoyed 30 years in the Navy, where he received many accolades for his service. He was promoted to Senior Chief, which was rarely achieved by an African American man. He made a positive difference in the lives of young men of every race. Tom traveled around the world twice, his stories were endless.

After retiring from the Navy, Tom worked as a clerk for the United States Postal Service. During his employment, he also received letters of commendation. Tom received a degree from San Diego College while employed at the USPS.

In May of 1998 Tom was introduced to Phyllis by his sister Patricia, the rest is history. He loved church, travel, photography, shopping at Costco, reading, music, cars, and line dancing. Tom was very happy to serve for 10 years at the Indianapolis Great Banquet. He was a member of Castleton Community Christian Church.

Tom spent the last 3 years of his life at Kesslerwood Senior living Center, where his wife Phyllis, and friends visited often. And during the Covid pandemic as much as was allowed. He leaves those to remember his smiles and Navy stories, wife Phyllis Adair-Ward, three children, Ronald Ward, Johanna Robinson and Lynn Kelly, brother Donald Ward, sister Glennis Crooks, grand­ children, great-grand-children, nieces, nephews, and too many friends to count.

"This is the day that the LORD has made, I will rejoice and be glad in it."