Howard Ray Ward, 38, of Gloucester, died unexpectedly April 26, 2011.

Howard enjoyed working with wood, and worked in construction as a trim carpenter. He loved nature and being outdoors. Howard made friends with everyone he met and would always start a conversation. He was generous, loving, had a kind heart and loved his family and daughter. Howard will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him.

His grandfather, Howard Shortt, and grandmother, Marion Shortt, preceded him in death.

He is survived by daughter, Angel Leigh Ward; mother, Marsha Hoem and husband Donald; father, Lyle Douglas Ward Sr.; brother, Lyle Douglas Ward Jr.; sisters, Rebecca Lynn Parker, Sherry Anne Ward, Amanda Dawn Gibbs.

A Celebration of Life service conducted by the Rev. Bill West was held at 4 p.m. Sunday at Hogg Funeral Home, Gloucester Point. Inurnment was private.

An account for the benefit of his daughter, Angel Leigh Ward, has been set up at EVB Bank, P.O. Box 1820, Gloucester, Va. 23061.