James Earl Ward

November 8, 1940 - July 6, 2017

James Earl Ward known as DOC was called to glory on Thursday July 6, 2017 in Newport News, VA. God gave James Earl Ward (DOC) the peaceful rest that only he gives to those who believe in Him. James was the son of the late Bettie Blackwell (Ward) Evans and the late Johnny (Boot) Ward. James was born on November 8, 1940, in Nash County, NC. As a child, James attended Union View Original Free Will Baptist Church, of the Green Pond Community in Nash County, North Carolina with his mother. He was educated in the Wilson county school system and worked on the farm. He moved to Newport News, VA in the late 50’s. While here he worked for the city of Newport News for several years, before becoming an employee for the Newport News Shipbuilding and Dry Dock Company in 1963, as a Crane Operator in the X36 (Riggers) Department. After working for 20 plus years, in 1989, James retired. He had a deep love for playing the lottery, and he would spend hours conversating with his family about hitting the big one. James would get up every morning to read the newspaper. James was a great provider for his family, and he loved visiting family in North Carolina before becoming ill. James was preceded in death by his brother Johnny Lee Ward, two sisters Magdelena Coley and Quwillie Ann Ward. He leaves to cherish his memories; his beautiful and devoted wife of 47 years Rolettie Ward, 3 sons Ronnie Earl Barnes of Fayetteville, NC, Warren Battle of Newport News, VA. Michael Ward Sr. (Mauyomi) of Newport News, VA. Four daughters Donna Ellis (Steven) of Rocky Mount, NC, Christi Brown (Kenneth Sr.) of Newport News, VA. Crystal Holmes of Newport News, VA and Katrina Creath (John) of Hampton, VA. Two sisters Florene Anderson of Newark, NJ and Earlene Gilliam of Newport News, VA. His best friend, running partner and brother-in-law, “June Bug;” and three other brothers-in-law Leon, Reginald (Pat) and Columbus (Daisy). Four sisters-in-law, Mary Evans, Shirley Lucas, Sarah Battle, and Brenda Bullock. He leaves 33 grandchildren,7 great grandchildren, one aunt, Hazel King, of Sims, NC; a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends A viewing will be held on Saturday, July 15, 2017, from 10 a.m. – 12:45 p.m., and a funeral service following at 1 p.m., at Morgan Funeral & Cremation, 320 South Glendale Drive, Rocky Mount, NC 27801.