Lj Ward

Leslie Joel Ward, 76, a resident of Dothan passed away March 28, 2016 at his home. He was survived by his loving wife of 43 years, Aida Rosales Ward and one son, Richard Joel Ward. Survivors also include three sisters, Sallie Downer Charles, Linda Roach John, and Mellanie Achilles Jeff and two brothers, Bennie Ward Deborah and Roger Ward. He was preceded in death by a son, Gunter, his father, Leslie Jackson Ward, his mother, Thelma Irene Bunch, and two sisters, Margie Inscor and Merle Ward.

The family will receive friends at Sunset Funeral Home on Sunday, April 3, 2016 from 5-7:00 p.m. with a prayer service beginning at 7:00 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, April 4, 2016 at St. Columba Catholic Church with Father Patrick Gallagher officiating. Burial will follow at Smyrna Baptist Church.

LJ Ward was a good husband and father who worked with his hands his whole life. In his working years, he was a plant maintenance mechanic. From a young age, he acquired a love for the land and making things grow. He used his knowledge to grow a variety of fruits and vegetables as well as orchids and award winning roses. LJ's passion for living things extended into raising cows, goats, bees, and chickens among other things. Upon retirement, he learned the art of flint knapping and turning wooden bowls, which he used to create beautiful artisan projects.

He was a founding member of the Southeast Alabama Orchid Society, he was a member of the Wiregrass Rose Society and a member of the Dothan Gem & Mineral Club and the Wiregrass Forge Blacksmith Club.

LJ died as he lived, working outside.