Ryan Nathan Ward,

Ryan Nathan Ward age 36 of Granite Falls passed away on Saturday, March 14, 2015 following an extended battle with ALS. He was born to Robert Joe and Wanda McDaniel Ward on Friday, September 1, 1978 in Burke Co. God was number one in his life, he took pride in his appearance and conduct as a witness for the Lord & Savior whom he served faithfully. He loved his family and traveling with them.

Those who have preceded him in death are his maternal grandparents Glenn and Margaret McDaniel, and his paternal grandfather Robert Joe Ward Sr.

In addition to his parents he leaves to cherish his memory his wife of eleven years Tonya Reid Ward of Granite Falls, a daughter Olivia Grace Ward, paternal grandmother Frances Ward Settlemyer, father and mother in-law Floyd and Martha Reid of Lenior, and numerous aunts and uncles along with cousins.

Visitation will be Wednesday, March 18, 2015 from 6:00-8:00 pm at Alexander Funeral Service. Funeral Services will be held Thursday, March 19, 2015 at 4:00 pm at Oxford Memorial Baptist Church, with Neil Walker officiating. The body will lie in state 30 minutes prior to the funeral hour. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Memorials can be made to The ALS Association, Jim "Catfish" Hunter Chapter 4 N Blount St., Suite 200 Raleigh, NC 27601 (877) 568-4347 or Catawba Regional Hospice 3975 Robinson Rd Newton, NC 28658 828-466-0466

Ryan would like to leave his favorite Bible Verse with everyone Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.  In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.