James "David" Ward, Sr.

James David Ward, Sr., best known as David, of Darlington, Florida, completed his earthly pilgrimage quietly and peacefully while surrounded by his beloved family, arriving safely in heaven, his forever home. Born March 17, 1939, to John and Lena Griggs Ward, David was the last survivor of their six children. Undoubtedly, David lived an interesting life. As a child, he attended Darlington School, just across from his home, then attended Walton High School. In 1956, David joined the United States Navy and was stationed in San Diego, California. Upon being honorably discharged, he moved to Belleview, Florida, where he worked with his brother Daniel at Swift Company.

In 1961, David met Marylee Artman, whom he married July 14, 1962. Their ceremony was the first marriage performed at Monroe Memorial Hospital in Ocala, Florida, due to illness of the pastor. In 1963, he began working at Florida Correctional Institution in Lowell, Florida, reaching the rank of lieutenant. In 1969, David returned to Darlington, his beloved home, with his family to begin his biggest adventure with his brother, Adolph. Together, the two brothers started Ward Memorial Company located in DeFuniak Springs, Florida, which is the present location of Davis-Watkins Funeral Home. After a hard struggle initially, the business prospered, and they stayed in partnership for ten years, with David selling out his share of the business to his brother so he could pursue other interests. David retired from the United States Postal Service in DeFuniak Springs in 1999 with eighteen years of service.

David was quite a character. Everywhere he went, you could hear laughter. He was famous for his good, clean jokes and his quick wit. He was also known for blowing his famous shofar that could be heard all over Darlington. David never met a stranger and loved playing tricks on people. He loved his children, but he especially enjoyed every minute with his grandkids and great-grandkids.

The greatest thing David ever did was receive Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. Prior to his illnesses (lymphoma, rare pneumonia, and dementia), he was faithful to church. He served as deacon and elder at First Baptist Church in Ponce de Leon. No matter what, David was willing to roll up his sleeves, picking up a broom or a hammer, serving his congregation. Until his death, with a smile on his face, David told everyone he met about his love for Jesus, pointing the way to eternal life through Him.

He is preceded in death by both his parents; four brothers, Delbert, Loyce (Monette), Daniel (Mary), Adolph (Earline, then Mildred); and his sister, Bobbie Jean (Harold); one grandson, Samuel Eli Blalock.

David is survived by his wife of sixty years, Marylee Ward; daughters, Jane Blalock (Andy) and Jean Nelson (Jerry); son, James David Ward, Jr.; grandkids, Chad Nelson (Kristen), Tanza Beck (Travis), Cody Nelson (Victoria), Caylee Griffith (Matthew), Sarah Wise (Chris), Hannah Blalock, Hunter, Lena, and Leah; thirteen great-grandkids; and many nieces, nephews, friends and loved ones.

"Very special thank you to Gentiva for their excellent compassionate care for our loved one. God bless."

Funeral services will be held Sunday, February 12, 2023, beginning at 3:00 p.m., at Darlington Baptist Church, with Minister Terry Smith, Minister Greg Alford, and Minister Barry Joiner officiating. A time of visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. Committal services will follow at Darlington Baptist Church Cemetery. 

Those serving as pallbearers: Chad Nelson, Cody Nelson, Matthew Griffith, Chris Wise, Rob Davidson, John Frank Ward, Bill Artman, and Jamie Ward. Honorary pallbearers: Jim Reynolds, Jamie Reynolds, Stephen Palmer and Jimmy Palmer.

Arrangements and services are under the direction of Davis-Watkins Funeral Home of DeFuniak Springs.