Obituary of Thomas R. Ward

"You can always tell where a beautiful soul has been by the tears and the smiles left behind."

Thomas R. Ward passed suddenly on Wednesday, October 3, 2018.  He shared 78 years of faith, love and always a touch of humor with everyone he knew. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, October 9^th at 10 am at his parish, St. Mary’s in Denville.  Interment to follow at Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington.  Visiting hours will be held on Monday, October 8^th from 3-7 pm at the Norman Dean Home For Services, 16 Righter Ave, Denville. Donations in his memory may be made to the good work of the American Cancer Society by way of www.inmemoryof-memorial.org.

Please share your memories here.  Tom’s family will cherish them forever.

Tom was born in 1940 to the late Thomas and Sophie.  He was one of four children to bless the family.  He attended St. James HS in Newark and later, Seton Hall University.  He enlisted into the US Army, proudly serving our country. He was a bright accountant and always worked hard to provide a good life for his family.  He was a longtime parishioner of St. Mary’s and his faith guided him throughout his life.  He loved spending time on LBI and catching the ocean breeze.  Tom was a gentleman.  He was sincere and honest, and always loving. Above everything; his family meant the world to him.  The sun rose and set on his children and grandchildren and he was so very proud of each one. Although we are saddened by his passing, we will find comfort every time we think of Tom’s love and “Ward humor” he shared with all of us.

Predeceased by his first wife Dolores of 49 years and his sister Dolores Petti; he leaves beautiful memories to his wife Judith; his son Thomas J. (Kathleen); his daughters Deanna Blondina (Kevin) and Donna Trautmann (Gregg); his grandchildren Douglas, Sara, Catherine, Isabella, James, Thomas and Nolan; Judy’s children and grandchildren Sherri Yarusinsky (Michael) and James Young (Toni), Miranda Scarpone, Brandon Yarusinsky; his dearest buddy Sean Sofield; his brothers Michael (Barbara) and Raymond (Roberta) Ward; his mother in law Betty Loehr “Bad Betty”;his loyal canine Archie and many dear nieces and nephews.