James Wesley Ward, Sr., age 85, of Gloucester, died July 1, 2012.

Jim served during WWII in the U.S. Navy and retired after 26 years from the U.S. Army as Chief Warrant Officer. During his time in the service he received numerous medals including the World War II Victory Medal. He also received the Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm, Bronze Star Medal and Meritorious Service Medal. After his service career, Jim also worked for Pepsi-Cola Company.

He was a member of Petsworth Baptist Church. The most important part of Jim’s life was his family, and he loved and supported them in every endeavor. He was a self-taught artist and spent many hours painting, especially painting from memories of his early years. He was an inspiration to his family and his memory will live on in the hearts of his family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Beverly Jenson, and grandson, Gary W. Walker.

He is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Reba Inez Ward; daughter, Brenda Walker and husband Lawrence; son, James W. Ward Jr.; four grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild.

Funeral services conducted by the Rev. Dennis Hollandsworth will be held 11 a.m. Friday, July 6, 2012 at Petsworth Baptist Church. Interment will follow in Windsor Gardens Cemetery.

Arrangements by Hogg Funeral Home and Crematory, Gloucester Point.