Lonnie Jay Ward

Lonnie Jay Ward, age 78, of Linden, passed away peacefully on August 1, 2026.

Funeral services will be held 11AM Friday, August 7, 2026 at Sharp Funeral Homes, Linden Chapel, 209 E. Broad St., Linden. Burial will follow at Fairview Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 3-7PM Thursday. Those wishing to make a memorial contribution may do so to The Linden Historical Society.

Lonnie was born on March 14, 1948, in Durand, the son of the late Jay and Frances (Parks) Ward. He graduated from Linden High School with the Class of 1966 before earning his bachelor's degree from Michigan State University. On May 15, 1970, he married, Patricia Ann Diskin, in Birmingham, beginning a marriage that spanned more than 56 years.

Lonnie spent nearly his entire life farming, a vocation he truly loved. He had a special passion for dairy cattle and, as a young man, proudly showed them at the county fair. He was also an active member of 4-H and enjoyed competing with the Silver Lake Horseshoe Club. Lonnie found great joy in working the land, spending time outdoors, and sharing life's simple pleasures with family and friends.

He is lovingly remembered by his wife, Patti; children, Michael Jay (Jennifer) Ward, Clinton Daniel (Samantha) Ward, and Teresa (Michael) Moore; and grandchildren, Emily Ward, Colton Moore, Ella Moore, Chase Moore, Henry Ward, Wyatt Ward, Katie Ward, Hunter Ward, and Austin Ward; several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Vickie Hoover, and his brother, Steven Ward.

Tributes may be shared at www.sharpfuneralhomes.com.