Arvil Ward, age 76

Arvil Ward, age 76, passed away peacefully on May 18, 2026. Born in Kentucky to Arthur and Zelma Ward, Arvil lived a life filled with love, laughter, devotion, and unwavering strength. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend whose presence left a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to know him. To his family, he was best known as “Pappy,” a title that brought him endless joy. To those who knew him, he was a force of nature, a fearless leader, and the kind of man whose love and presence made everyone feel loved.

Arvil was married to the love of his life, Betty, for 58 wonderful years. Together, they built a beautiful family rooted in love, loyalty, laughter, and countless cherished memories.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Zelma Ward; and his siblings, Charles Ray Ward, Arthur Ward Jr., and Faye Falls.

He is survived by his loving wife, Betty Ward; his daughters, Kimberly Vowell (Tim), Shannon Thornton (Greg), and Ashleigh Ciulla (John); his grandchildren, Lyndsey DuCheney (Douglas), Kaci Comford (Taylor), Taylor Weber (Scott), Tanner Thornton (Allison), Nolen Ciulla, and Aiden Ciulla; and his great-grandchildren, Logan, Max, Rylee, Luke, Laura and Lucy. He is also survived by his siblings, Irene Willocks, Claude Ward, Gary Ward, and Terry Ward (Teresa), along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who loved him deeply.

Though his family is heartbroken by this tremendous loss, they are comforted knowing stories of his pranks, mishaps, jokes, generosity, love, laughter, and friendship will be told for many years. His memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who were blessed to know and love him.

Visitation will be from 5:00-7:00PM on Wednesday May 20, 2026, in the chapel of Martin Wilson Funeral Home, with the funeral services to follow as 7:00 PM with Pastor Tanner Thornton officiating. Friends and family will meet in the chapel of Martin Wilson funeral home Thursday May 21 at 9:15 AM to go in funeral procession to Campbell Memorial Gardens for an 10:00 AM interment.

The family has entrusted the care of Arvil Ward to Martin Wilson Funeral Home “Where Families Matter Most”.