Cecil Earl Ward

Cecil Earl Ward, age 94, passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday morning, March 23, 2024. A graveside service will be held at Grove Hill Cemetery at 11:00 am on Monday, March 25, directed by Belk Funeral Home. There will be a time of fellowship from 10:30 until the service starts at 11:00 in the cemetery Monday.

Mr. Ward was born in Darlington, son of the late William Leon Ward Jr. and Inez Odom Ward. Cecil graduated from St. Johns High School in 1946, and married his late wife, Josephine Goodson Ward in 1950 . He worked various jobs before landing a job as Darlington City Manager where he served for over 6 years and City Administrator for over 25 years, before retiring in 1995. Being born and raised in Darlington, he was an active member of the community and served in organizations such as Kiwanis and the Lions Club. He was a Mason for over 70 years, a Master Mason since 1951 and Past Master of St. David's Lodge #72 in Darlington. He met many friends in his community involvement, and met many more on the golf course, as golf was his favorite pastime. He enjoyed watching the Atlanta Braves play baseball. Most importantly, he was a man of God. Cecil was a member of First Baptist Church, always serving by teaching Sunday School, singing in the choir, or serving as a deacon.

He is survived by his daughter Penelope Jo "Penny" Ward and his grand-dog, Ozzie.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his step-mother, Camilla Ward and all of his siblings: William Andrew Ward, Margaret Bailey and John Elmer Ward.

Thank you to Lera Isaac for the way you cared for Cecil and to Agape Hospice.

Memorials may be made to Darlington First Baptist Church,  PO Box 297 Darlington, SC 29540 or Agape Hospice , 1516 W Palmetto St, Florence, SC 29501