J. Roger Ward, Sr., 87, passed away peacefully on May 13, 2025.

Born in the coal mining town of Van Lear, Kentucky on January 18, 1938, Roger's early years were rooted in humble beginnings and strong work values. In 1947, his family moved to the Fox Hill area of Hampton, Virginia, where they worked the land and built a life through farming and dairy work.

A proud graduate of Hampton High School, Class of 1956, Roger went on to serve honorably in the United States Air Force from 1956 to 1960. Stationed in Manchester, England, it was there he met the love of his life, Maureen, beginning a 58-year love story that would last a lifetime.

Roger's professional life was defined by dedication, hard work, and leadership. In 1960, he began his long and distinguished 53-year career in the Shipbuilding and Ship Repair Industry at Newport News Shipbuilding and Dry Dock Company. Over the decades, he took on key roles—QA Manager, Safety Manager, Ship Superintendent, and Production Manager—across numerous Naval Ship Repair companies. From 1992 to 2001, he owned and operated Boiler Cleaning and Specialty Corp., and he concluded his career at Epsilon System Solutions, retiring in 2013. Within the Naval Ship Repair Community in Hampton Roads, Roger was known not just for his expertise, but for his integrity, unwavering work ethic, and dry sense of humor.

Roger's life was also marked by his commitment to his faith and fraternal organizations. He was a 32nd Degree Scottish Rite Mason and Knight Commander of the Court of Honor. A Mason for over 55 years, he was a proud member of Monitor Lodge 197, Warwick Lodge 336, Warwick Royal Arch Chapter 80, Hampton Commandery 17, the Peninsula Shrine Club, the Khedive Shrine, and the Valley of Newport News. Through these affiliations, Roger built lifelong friendships and gave generously of his time and spirit.

He is survived by his sons, John R. Ward, Jr. (wife Luydmila) and Michael J. Ward (wife Kelly); grandchildren, Spencer E. Ward (wife Amanda), Collin J. Ward, and Alexandra P. Ward; and his beloved great-grandson, Ethan A. Ward.

He now rejoins those who went before him: his cherished wife, Maureen F. Ward; his parents, John and Josephine Ward; his sister, Jenny Lou Kurtz; and his brother, James Ward.

Roger's legacy is one of quiet strength and service to his country and community. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

Roger spent the last two years at the Masonic Home in Richmond. The family would like to thank the staff for taking excellent care of Roger during this time. In place of flowers, please consider a donation to the Masonic Home of Virginia: https://www.mahova.org/donate/.

Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance on Thursday, May 22, 2025, from 5- 6:30 pm, with Masonic Rites at 5:30 pm, at Berceuse Funeral and Cremation Traditions, 2609 Cunningham Dr., Hampton, VA. For inquiries, please call 757-825-8070.