James R. Ward

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of James Ward of Perry Hall, MD, who went to be with the Lord on Monday, April 7, 2025, at the age of 83.

James (Jim) Ward was born in Pittsburgh, PA, on August 22, 1941, to the late John William and Gladys Marie (Gunning) Ward.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his two brothers, John (Jack) and Dennis Ward, and his wife of 55 years, Rosemary (Koerner). Jim is survived by his son, James P Ward, and wife, Barbara; his daughter, Kimberly Yackulak and husband, Sean; his grandchildren, Jacqueline Smith and husband Zach; Allyson Olsen and husband Jesse; Matthew, Brandon, Krystal, and Kara Yackulak; and Great-Grandchildren, Madison and Abigail Smith, Benjamin and Elizabeth Olsen plus another one on the way.

After graduating from Wilkinsburg High School in 1959, Jim moved to Maryland, where he met and married Rosemary in 1966. After their wedding, they resided in Front Royal, Virginia, for a few years before moving back to Maryland. For 35 years, they lived in Idlewylde, Maryland, where they raised their family. Then in 2005, they moved to Perry Hall to be closer to their adult children.

Jim spent most of his working years as a field merchandiser for various companies and 20 years with Household Research. Then, for 10+ years, he worked in maintenance at a senior care facility, retiring in 2008. He worked hard to provide for his family and save for retirement.

Jim and Rosemary spent their retirement years traveling and visiting over 55 countries until his health declined in 2020. After his wife’s sudden passing in 2021, Jim moved into Brightview Assisted Living in Perry Hall. His health continued to decline, prompting a move to their Wellspring unit in June 2024 and then Hospice care in August 2024.

Jim and his wife were loyal and active members of St. Pius X Church in Towson and St. Joseph Church in Fullerton.

The family will receive friends from 3:30 to 5:00 p.m. on Monday, April 14, 2025, at Schimunek Funeral Home, 9705 Belair Road, Perry Hall, MD 21236. A celebration of life service will be held at 5:00 p.m., with a light reception to follow.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you make donations to your charity of choice in James Ward’s memory.