Dennis E. Ward, 79, of Benton, Arkansas, passed away on June 5, 2026.

He was preceded in death by his father Garner Wilson Ward and his mother Bobbie Nan Travis Ward of England, Arkansas. He is survived by his wife of 54 years Nancy Benson Ward; his daughter Melissa Ward Sanders (Robert); his grandchildren Evan Daniel Sanders and Morning Caroline Sanders, all of Benton; his sister Pam Ward Culp (Allen) of Marvell; and his brother David Ward (Carolyn) of Keo.

Dennis was born on April 16, 1947, in Little Rock. He graduated from Pine Bluff High and attended the University of Arkansas at Monticello, graduating in 1970. He and Nancy were married in August of 1971 and started their life together in Jefferson County.

Dennis then began his long teaching career at Watson Chapel High School, where he taught tenth grade biology. In 1990, the Wards moved to Saline County, where he continued his career at Benton Junior High, teaching ninth grade life sciences. After retiring from the classroom, Dennis wasn't ready to leave Benton Public Schools behind: he moved his employment to the bus garage, where he was a fixture until he was 78 years old.

Dennis was often the life of the party. He valued his time with family and treasured his friendships from both Watson Chapel and Benton. As an avid deer hunter, he was a frequent visitor at more than one deer camp. He loved watching Gunsmoke and The Andy Griffith Show, and he had every episode of M*A*S*H committed to memory. When he was at home, he was often outside, where he could be found in the garden – growing peppers, tomatoes, and cucumbers.

The Wards have been making monthly contributions to the Arkansas Foodbank since 2020. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating at https://arkansasfoodbank.org/

Visitation will be from 6:30 to 7:00 PM Thursday, June 18, 2026 at Ashby Funeral Home with Memorial services at 7:00 PM.