Richard L. “Rick” Ward

Richard Lynn "Rick" Ward, 69, born October 7, 1956 to James Thomas Ward and Grace (Roberts) Griffing, passed away on December 8, 2025 at his residence in Starkville, MS.

Born in Sunflower, MS he spent his younger years living all over the western United States traveling with his stepfather's job. He eventually landed in Starkville, MS, raising his family and working as produce manager at Kroger for 44 years before retiring 9 years ago. He enjoyed camping, fishing, hunting, feeding his deer, MSU, watching SEC football, and being Pop-Pop to his grandchildren and great grandson.

Rick is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Ann (Holladay) Ward of Starkville, MS; his 3 daughters, Christy Dodd (Marcus), of Sturgis, MS, Jenny Byrd (Matt), of Ellisville, MS, and Stephanie Ward (Ryan), of Starkville, MS; his mother Grace (Roberts) Griffing, of Ackerman, MS; brother Eddie Griffing (Rebecca), of Terry, MS; and his sister Melinda McKenzie, of Spring Hill, FL. He also leaves to cherish his memory his 8 grandchildren, Liz Sharp (Tyler), Chase Dodd, Camden Shurden, Kayley Byrd, Wesley Dodd, Hudson Kurtz, Ella Grace Byrd and Zoey Byrd, his great grandson Ryder Sharp, and a host of nieces, nephews, and bonus babies.

Rick was preceded in death by his stepfather, Arthur Marion "Bubbie" Griffing, and his nephew Jessie Aaron Griffing.

A Celebration of Life will be announced by the family at a later date - Rick wanted one final party and wanted everyone he knew and loved to attend.

The family wants to thank the many doctors, nurses, and therapists that have worked tirelessly with Rick in his battle with chronic illnesses over the past year and a half. A heartfelt thanks to the men and women of Adaton Volunteer Fire Department, OCSD and the EMT's for doing all they could for him in this last chapter.

Donations may be made in his honor to the Adaton Volunteer Fire Department.