Willie “Mullet” Ward

A celebration of life for Willie “Mullet” Ward, who died November 25, 2014, was held Saturday, Nov. 29, at Springfield Missionary Baptist Church in Monticello. Rev. Jimmy Horton, pastor, officiated; burial was in South View Cemetery.

Mr. Ward, a native of Monticello, was born December 9, 1957 to the late Eugene Broadus and Virginia (Teddie) Ward, who preceded him in death. He was raised by his grandmother, Ms. Mattie Ridley and aunt, Mrs. Earvie Lou “Shug” Middlebrooks.

Willie found love and gave his heart to Ms. Mamie Lou Lawrence. They were together for over 23 years until her death. He was the proud step-father of six children, two of which preceded him in death; Jacquelyn Alexander and Charlene Davis.

Willie started work at a very young age pulp-wooding. He later found employment at Georgia Pacific for over 20 years before retiring. After retirement, he enjoyed spending time cooking, joking, and jiving with family and friends until his illness.

Mullet leaves to cherish his memories four children, Bonnie (Albert) Gordon of Fitzgerald, Minnie Lawrence of Monticello, Shurlene (Luis) Rivera of Macon, and a son, Eric Lawrence of Macon; brothers, Johnny Ward of Monticello, Danny Ward of Eatonton, Lawrence Ward of Cleveland, Ohio, and Lamar Ward of Gray; 15 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, three aunts, Ms. Earvie “Shug” Middlebrooks, Jannie Mae Ridley Battle, Geraldine (Clyde) Walker; and one uncle, Robert Lee Satcher; two devoted friends, Milton “PD” Adams and Lonnie Beasley, both of Monticello, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives and friends, and a special devoted niece, Rulanda Mathis Little, who loved him dearly and cared for him during his illness until his departure.

Smith and Sons Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.