Max F. Ward

Max F. Ward of Gainesville, GA., passed away on January 25, 2017, at his home surrounded by friends and family.

Max was born October 13, 1921, to the late Floyd and Jewel Ward in Memphis, Tennessee.  He graduated from Central High School and went on to attend Vanderbilt University receiving his degree four years later in 1942.  Max continued his education at the University of Memphis Law School, where he graduated summa cum laude. 

Entering the Armed Services during World War II, Max served four years in the 20th Air Force Division.  His military accolades include a Presidential Citation, the Good Conduct Medal, two bronze stars, and several theater ribbons.

In 1950, Max moved from Memphis to Gainesville, where he entered into the poultry industry.  As a poultry executive, he served as President of Mar-Jac, Vice President of CWT, and was involved in many affiliated businesses.

An avid sportsmen, Max was a Gainesville City Golf Champion and the only individual to hold the titles of both Chattahoochee Country Club golf champion and tennis champion.  He was an Eagle Scout and received the Order of the Arrow.  He served as a scoutmaster of Troop 16 of the Gainesville First United Methodist Church.  In 1993, he was voted Rotary Club Man of the Year.  He was a loving husband, a dedicated father, and a loyal friend to many within the Gainesville community.

He was preceded in death by his parents; Floyd and Jewel Ward.

Max is survived by his wife, Margaret Ward; his son and daughter-in-law, Keith and Susan Ward; his daughter and son-in-law, Carol Jane and Bill Lomax; his grandchildren, Ross and Maggie Ward; his grandson and granddaughter-in-law, Will and Erin Lomax; his great granddaughter, Sylvia Lomax; as well as many nieces, nephews, and extended family.

Graveside services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, January 28, 2017 at Alta Vista Cemetery.  The Rev. Scott Hearn will officiate.   A memorial service and visitation will be held at a later date at the Gainesville First United Methodist Church. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Gainesville First United Methodist Building Fund, 2780 Thompson Bridge Rd, Gainesville, GA 30506, or the charity of your choosing.

Those desiring to leave online condolences may do so at www.littledavenport.com.

Little Davenport Funeral Home and Crematory 355 Dawsonville Hwy. Gainesville, Ga. 30501.