Thomas E. Ward (Tommy), of Benton, descended into heaven on October 28, 2025. He was born on December 27, 1939, living a full life of 85 years with a whole lot packed into a life on his terms. He was born in Conway, Arkansas to Clomer and Gladys Ward. He spent his early years in Damascus, Arkansas until moving to Haskell, Arkansas when he was 12 years old. His vivid memory was of riding in the back of his dad's truck, on top of all of the furniture, to finally arrive in Haskell. He graduated from Harmony Grove High School in 1957 in a class of 14 students. Tommy worked for Timex Corporation for 12 years and for Reynolds Metals Company for 20 years. He continually moved up in the company and ended his career in Portland, Texas. This was after working in Bunburry, Western Australia for a year to help with a startup plant. His roots were always in Arkansas, therefore after his retirement from Reynolds, he relocated to Benton, Arkansas where he remained until his death.

He was an avid deer hunter in Arkansas as well as Colorado. He would frequently tell his grand kids and great grand kids about his adventures being sure to include that hunting from a deer stand is for amateurs, that the way to hunt was stalking.

Tommy was married to Margaret Clift for 34 years. They had three daughters and eight grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. He made no secret that he always wanted sons but had three daughters instead. Much to his surprise and joy, his first grands were sons who all three arrived in the same year. He will be remembered for his wit, charm, and one of a kind personality. He loved to play poker and when he decided he was ready to see his savior he told his grandson, "I'm cashing out".

He was preceded in death by his parents, Clomer and Gladys Ward.

He is survived by Kelly Yates (Randy), Susie Simmons (Mike), and Sherry Penn (Mark), his brothers Clomer Ward (Betty), Bobby Ward (Margie), and Carolyn Kruse (Fred). He also had double cousins that were considered sisters as well. He will also be remembered by many nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind his grandchildren; Tiffany Everage, Dale Yates (Keri), Matt Penn (Tasha), Zach Penn (Stephanie), Josh Penn (Marie), Jake Simmons (Jessica), Brooke Parks (John), Torie Simmons (Erika). His eight grandchildren were his pride and joy; Clark and Makenna Simmons, Kodie and Sawyer Parks, Landon, Luke, Hunter, Keaton Penn and a new arrival coming in December Gracelynn Penn.

There will be an open visitation at Ashby Funeral Home on Wednesday, October 29th, 8:00 a.m. – 8:30 p.m. There will be a graveside service on Thursday, October 30 at 10:00 AM at Mt. Harmony Cemetery.