Charles Ray Ward

Charles Ray Ward, 82

Charles Ray Ward of Lake Wales passed away on Thursday, July 17, 2025 at Life Care Center of Winter Haven.

He was born February 12, 1943 in Lake Wales to the late Horace and Luella Ward. Ray was a retired maintenance mechanic for Estech in Bartow and was a coach for Lake Wales Little League for many years. He was an avid air boater and had a love for antique vehicles, Ray loved working in his garden, piddling in his workshop, fishing, and frog gigging for family and friends cookouts. He was a fan of the New York Jets.

Ray was preceded in death by his wife, Phyllis in 2017; and son, Duane in 1980. He is survived by his daughters, Cindy Dees and husband Robert of Winter Haven, Donna Martin and husband Tim of Babson Park; grandchildren, Tiffany, Amy, Robby, Tabatha, Tadd, Jake, Aaron, Lucas; and 15 great-grandchildren.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, July 29, 2025 at Marion Nelson Funeral Home in Lake Wales with Mr. Nicholas Mercado officiating.