James R. Ward, 53, 22 Bear Drive, New Bremen, died at 9:20 p.m. Sept. 26, 2006, his residence, due to natural causes.

He was born Aug. 10, 1953, in Athens, to Samuel B. and Helen Pennell Ward, who are both deceased. On July 25, 1992, he married Joyce Kinard, who survives.

Also surviving are several nephews and a niece.

Deceased is a sister, Mary Kelley.

He was employed as a flooring installer for Paulus Flooring, Versailles. He was a graduate of The Way Corp Program, a fellowship coordinator within the organization and a member of The Way International, New Knoxville, for more than 30 years. He also was a 1971 graduate of Athens (Ohio) High School.

A memorial service is 10 a.m. Oct. 7 at Gilberg-Hartwig Funeral Home, New Bremen, the Rev. Joseph Stutz officiating. His body has been cremated.

Calling is after 9 a.m. Oct. 7 at the funeral home.